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Emblems & Satire · 19th century

Set of 3 Vanity Fair Spy Caricatures – Named Victorian Figures, 1883

€ 750

One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.

Date
1883
Sheet size
38 × 26 cm (15.0 × 10.2 in)
Condition
Good
Reference
BG-14157-44, -45, -46

Condition

Very good overall with light age toning and minor foxing. Some light edge wear typical for the period. Colors well preserved.

About this sheet

Set of 3 Vanity Fair Spy Caricatures – Named Victorian Figures 1883
A refined set of three original Vanity Fair chromolithographs, all published in December 1883 and drawn by Leslie Ward (“Spy”). This group presents three identifiable figures from Victorian Britain, representing law, medicine, and politics within the upper circles of society.

The set includes:
“Criminal Investigation” – Sir Howard Vincent, Director of Criminal Investigations and key figure in the development of modern policing
“Lord Beaconsfield’s Physician” – Sir William Jenner, renowned physician and personal doctor to Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli (Lord Beaconsfield)
“Finsbury” – Samuel Morley, influential Liberal politician, philanthropist, and MP for Finsbury

Together, these portraits reflect the professional elite of Victorian Britain: law enforcement reform, medical authority, and parliamentary leadership. Ward captures each figure with subtle humor and precision, emphasizing характер, status, and personality through posture and dress.

Printed by Vincent Brooks, Day & Son in London, the set offers both decorative unity and strong historical relevance, ideal for collectors and interior display.

Special note: These are original 19th century chromolithographs, not reproductions. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The chromolithographs are sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.

Condition:
Very good overall with light age toning and minor foxing. Some light edge wear typical for the period. Colors well preserved.

Framing tips:
Best presented in matching dark frames with ivory mats. Ideal as a tight group of three for a balanced wall display.

Technique: Chromolithograph
Maker: Leslie Ward (“Spy”), printed by Vincent Brooks, Day & Son, London, 1883

Keywords:
Vanity Fair set, Spy caricatures, Leslie Ward Spy, Sir Howard Vincent, Sir William Jenner, Samuel Morley, Victorian portraits set, Vanity Fair chromolithographs, British political caricature, 1883 prints, antique portrait set, Victorian professionals

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Set of 3 Vanity Fair Spy Caricatures – Named Victorian Figures, 1883
Set of 3 Vanity Fair Spy Caricatures – Named Victorian Figures, 1883
1883 · Ref. BG-14157-44, -45, -46 · € 750
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