The Fat Boy from Pickwick Papers – Victorian Print by “Kyd” after Dickens, 1889

About this sheet

The Fat Boy from Pickwick Papers – Comic Victorian Print by “Kyd” after Dickens
This original chromolithograph from circa 1889 features “The Fat Boy,” one of the most iconic comic characters from Charles Dickens’s *The Pickwick Papers* (1836–37). Rendered in full color by the celebrated British caricaturist Joseph Clayton Clarke, better known as “Kyd,” this image captures the drowsy servant of Mr Wardle in all his sleepy, portly glory.

The Fat Boy is a humorous character remembered for his insatiable appetite, constant dozing off, and deadpan responses. His most famous line—“I wants to make your flesh creep”—has amused generations of Dickens readers. In this illustration, he stands with a dazed, indifferent expression, hands tucked into his coat pockets, and his impressive girth accentuated by the tailored blue uniform and tall black boots. Kyd’s distinctive flair for facial expression and posture communicates the character’s droll slowness and comic appeal perfectly.

Kyd's Dickens character series was published by Raphael Tuck & Sons in London, Paris, and New York. These chromolithographs were immensely popular with Victorian collectors and remain highly desirable today as decorative and literary prints.

Condition report:
Original chromolithograph on cream wove paper. Minor scattered foxing in the margins; the printed area remains clean with vivid colors and no tears. Paper is strong and well preserved.

Framing tips:
This piece pairs beautifully with others in the “Kyd” Dickens series. Frame with a narrow black or dark brown wooden frame and a soft ivory or pale beige mat to complement the muted palette and Victorian charm. Ideal for display in libraries, studies, or traditional interiors.

Technique: Chromolithograph
Artist: Joseph Clayton Clarke (“Kyd”)
Publisher: Raphael Tuck & Sons, London, Paris & New York
Date: Circa 1889
Sheet size: approximately 36.5 x 26.5 cm
Image size: approximately 27 x 18 cm