The Battle of Vittoria, 1813

Coloured etched caricature by and after George Cruikshank. Published by Thomas Tegg, London, 7 July 1813.

The victory of General Sir Arthur Wellesley, Marquess of Wellington, at Vittoria on 21 June 1813 brought about the final downfall of French rule in Spain. Joseph Bonaparte narrowly escaped capture and can be seen fleeing to France at the top right of the picture. Nearly all the French Army's baggage and artillery fell into British hands. The victory would have been even more conclusive had not many British soldiers abandoned the pursuit to indulge in an orgy of looting.