John Collet: A Satirical Mirror of Eighteenth Century London John Collet (1720 – 1780) emerged as a prominent figure in the British satirical art scene during the reign of George II, skillfully capturing the decadent excesses and moral failings prevalent within London society. Born around 1725 in London—the son of a gentleman holding a public office—his artistic journey began under the tutelage of Lambert at St Martin’s Lane Art School, establishing him firmly within the burgeoning artistic landscape of his time. His debut exhibition at the Free Society of Artists in 1761 showcased three lan…