The Bostonian's Paying the Excise-Man, or Tarring & Feathering

Attributed to Philip Dawe

National Gallery of Art

The image shows a group of men holding down another person. The central figure is laid out and covered with feathers. His facial expression appears distressed, with long hair. The other individuals wear long coats, hats, and trousers. One man is pouring liquid labeled "Tea" on the central figure. In the background, there are ships and a large tree labeled "LIBERTY TREE" with a sign attached. The scene is monochrome, with shades of brown and tan.