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The Beast of Burden, 1884. Artist: Joseph Swain
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The Beast of Burden, 1884. Artist: Joseph Swain
The Beast of Burden, 1884. John Bull is depicted trying to persuade the camel representing Egypt and laden with political issues, to move, whilst France offers to take over the task. At the beginning of 1884, news arrived that the Mahdi (a former government official in the Sudan, now styling himself as Messiah ) was mustering an army to advance upon Khartoum. Political opinion on the appropriate course of action was divided, but the opposition Conservative Party called for France to be excluded from interference in the affairs of Egypt, even if that meant that British forces must occupy Egypt to maintain control. From Punch, or the London Charivari, January 19, 1884
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Media ID 14831853
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Burden Burdened Camel Camels Foreign Affairs Foreign Policy Heritage Image Partnership John Bull John Tenniel Joseph Swain Mahdi Persuasion Sir John Tenniel Struggle Swain Tenniel Allegorical Figure
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The Beast of Burden, 1884
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a powerful political satire captured in this print by Joseph Swain. The image portrays the complex foreign policy struggles faced by Britain during the late 19th century. John Bull, symbolizing Britain, can be seen desperately trying to persuade Egypt, represented by a burdened camel laden with political issues, to move forward amidst mounting challenges. In this allegorical representation, France emerges as an alternative option offering to take over the burdensome task from Britain. The cartoon reflects the divided opinions within British politics regarding how best to handle the impending threat posed by the Mahdi's army advancing towards Khartoum. The opposition Conservative Party staunchly advocates for excluding France from interfering in Egyptian affairs and suggests that British forces should occupy Egypt instead. This satirical engraving highlights not only the struggle for control but also exposes underlying tensions between nations vying for influence in this pivotal region. Joseph Swain's artistic prowess shines through his intricate depiction of each character and their symbolic significance. The monochrome black and white format adds depth and intensity to this thought-provoking piece. "The Beast of Burden, 1884" serves as a testament to Swain's ability to capture complex political concepts through caricature and satire. It stands as a valuable heritage image partnership between two talented artists - Joseph Swain and John Tenniel - who have masterfully conveyed an important moment in history through their artistry.
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