Set of 3 Vanity Fair Caricatures – Aristocracy & Politics Portraits 1883
€ 750
Original antique · The actual sheet photographed · Certificate of authenticity on request · Sold unframed · Worldwide shipping from € 15 (rates)
Date
1883
Mapmaker / artist
Leslie Ward (“Spy”) and Carlo Pellegrini (“Ape”), printed by Vincent Brooks, Day & Son, London, 1883
Technique
Chromolithograph
Sheet size
38 × 26 cm (15.0 × 10.2 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-14157-47, -49, -50
What the condition grades mean
Excellent
Bright and clean, with no faults worth mentioning.
Very good
Only light signs of age, such as faint toning.
Good
Normal signs of age for a sheet of this period: toning, some foxing, small marks or neat old repairs.
Fair
Clear faults such as staining, tears or repairs, priced to match.
Every fault we see is written in the condition note, and the whole sheet is shown uncropped in the photos.
Condition
Very good overall with light age toning and minor foxing. Occasional light edge wear consistent with age. Colors remain well preserved.
About this sheet
Set of 3 Vanity Fair Caricatures – Aristocracy & Politics Portraits 1883 A refined and decorative set of three original Vanity Fair chromolithographs, published in late 1883 and drawn by leading Vanity Fair artists including Leslie Ward (“Spy”) and Carlo Pellegrini (“Ape”). This elegant group represents the upper circles of Victorian aristocracy and political society.
The set includes: “The Countess of Dalhousie” – Louisa, Countess of Dalhousie, a prominent aristocratic society figure known for her elegance and social standing “A persevering politician” – Sir Stafford Northcote, 1st Earl of Iddesleigh, a leading Conservative statesman and former Chancellor of the Exchequer “Palmerston’s secretary” – Sir George Villiers, Lord Clarendon, a key diplomat and close associate of Lord Palmerston, influential in British foreign policy
Together, these portraits reflect the social and political elite of Victorian Britain—aristocratic life, parliamentary leadership, and diplomatic influence. The combination of interior portraiture and full-length caricature creates a visually varied yet harmonious set, showcasing Vanity Fair’s ability to capture both personality and status with wit and refinement.
Printed by Vincent Brooks, Day & Son in London, these chromolithographs combine strong decorative appeal with historical significance.
Very good overall with light age toning and minor foxing. Occasional light edge wear consistent with age. Colors remain well preserved.
Framing tips: Ideal in matching dark frames with ivory mats. Works well as a balanced group of three for a classic interior setting.
Special note: These are original 19th century chromolithographs, not reproductions. The chromolithographs are sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
