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Khi-Va La?, 1873. Artist: John Tenniel
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Khi-Va La?, 1873. Artist: John Tenniel
Khi-Va La?, 1873. Earl Granville, the Liberal Foreign Secretary in Mr Gladstones government since 1870, stands guard at Indias northern border. This cartoon refers to the increasing concern being felt in Britain at Russias forthcoming expedition to Khiva which had been proposed by Russian ministers. At that time, Khiva was in independent Turkestan and any advances made by Russia were viewed with considerable disquiet. Lord Granville was assured by the Russians that they had no intention of annexing Khiva, an assurance that was received with some scepticism. Khi-Va La is a play on the French Qui va la - Who goes there. From Punch, or the London Charivari, January 25, 1873
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Media ID 14831636
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2nd Earl Granville Bayonet Border Earl Earl Granville Foreign Secretary Granville Granville George Granville George Leveson Gower Granville Leveson Gower Heritage Image Partnership John Tenniel Khiva Leveson Gower Liberal Liberal Party Lord Granville Rifle Sir John Tenniel Tenniel Uzbekistan Ozbekistan
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Khi-Va La?, 1873 - A Glimpse into Britain's Concerns at Russia's Khiva Expedition
EDITORS COMMENTS
. In this print titled "Khi-Va La?, 1873" we are transported back to a pivotal moment in history. The artist, John Tenniel, masterfully captures the essence of the political tensions that gripped Britain during the late 19th century. The central figure in this artwork is Earl Granville, the Liberal Foreign Secretary serving under Mr Gladstone's government since 1870. Standing guard at India's northern border, he symbolizes Britain's growing unease over Russia's proposed expedition to Khiva. At that time, Khiva was an independent region within Turkestan, and any advances made by Russia were met with great apprehension. Tenniel ingeniously incorporates elements of satire and symbolism in his cartoon-like depiction. Earl Granville is shown armed with a rifle and bayonet while mounted on a majestic horse—a visual representation of both military might and diplomatic vigilance. The title itself—Khi-Va La—is a clever play on words derived from the French phrase "Qui va la?" meaning "Who goes there?". It reflects the uncertainty surrounding Russia's intentions towards Khiva. This thought-provoking image serves as a reminder of how politics and power dynamics shaped international relations during this era. As viewers gaze upon this monochrome engraving, they are transported back to a time when borders were fiercely guarded, alliances tested, and nations held their breath amidst geopolitical uncertainties. Through Tenniel’s artistic lens, we witness not only historical events but also timeless themes such as wariness towards foreign powers and the delicate balance between diplomacy and military strength. This heritage image partnership allows us to delve deeper into our shared past while appreciating Sir John Tenniel’s remarkable talent for capturing complex political narratives through artistry.
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