About this sheet
Victorian Vanity Fair Caricatures, Parliament & Society, Set of Six, 1883
Description
This distinguished set of six original Vanity Fair chromolithographs from 1883 presents a focused portrait of late Victorian parliamentary life and social character, bringing together politicians, legal authorities, industrialists, and aristocratic figures whose influence shaped British public affairs. Issued during Vanity Fair’s golden age and printed by Vincent Brooks, Day & Son, these full-length caricatures are celebrated for their refined draughtsmanship, restrained humor, and keen observation of personality and reputation.
Note: The prints are offered unframed, enabling custom framing to personal or interior preferences.
The set includes Sir Edward Arthur Henry Lechmere Bt MP, portrayed under the caption “St John of Jerusalem,” reflecting his strong Anglican convictions and association with the Order of St John; Robert William Duff MP of Fetteresso, a Scottish Liberal politician closely connected to landed and reformist interests; and Charles Clough Tennant MP, shown as “Glasgow,” representing the industrial and commercial power of Victorian urban Britain. Parliamentary society is further represented by Thomas Thornhill MP, familiarly known as “Tom,” whose long career and approachable manner made him a well-known figure in Westminster circles.
Legal authority and moral seriousness are embodied by Richard Everard Webster QC, captioned “Law and Conscience,” a leading barrister who later rose to become Attorney General and Lord Chief Justice of England. Completing the group is Lord Gerald FitzGerald, depicted as “A Wandering Minstrel,” an Irish aristocrat celebrated in Victorian society for his unconventional temperament, artistic leanings, and restless independence.
Visually, the six prints form a cohesive and balanced ensemble, unified by consistent format, palette, and date. The pale grounds, controlled hand-coloring, and confident yet individualized poses create a calm, architectural rhythm that translates exceptionally well to refined interiors. Together, the group captures a distinctly Victorian blend of authority, individuality, and social identity, making it particularly appealing for libraries, studies, club rooms, or sophisticated hospitality settings.
Overall very good original condition. Light, even age toning throughout, with occasional small scattered spots or faint handling marks consistent with 19th-century paper. The chromolithographed images remain crisp and unfaded, with no major tears, losses, or restorations observed. Margins are ample and suitable for framing.
Framing tips:
For an elevated and cohesive presentation, frame all six prints uniformly in dark walnut, ebonised wood, or antique-style gilt frames with generous ivory or warm off-white mounts. Museum or UV-protective glass is recommended. The set works particularly well arranged in a balanced two-by-three configuration or as a linear display in a library or study.
