Home > Arts > Artists > T > John Tenniel
The Monster Slain, 1872. Artist: Joseph Swain
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
The Monster Slain, 1872. Artist: Joseph Swain
The Monster Slain, 1872. The monster of perjury and injustice lies dead, slain with the trusty sword of truth and justice. This cartoon refers to the Tichborne case, which had begun ten years before in 1862. The proceedings centred around whether or not the Claimant was the eldest son of the deceased Sir James Tichborne. As so often happened, the case wound on and on. Proceedings in Chancery were notoriously difficult to resolve and many people were bankrupted by being joined in proceedings, very often against their will. This was satirised very successfully in Charles Dickenss Bleak House through his description of the evils brought by the Jarndyce case. After a hearing lasting more than 100 days, the Claimant could not prove his case and was instead committed to stand trial on a charge of perjury. From Punch, or the London Charivari, March 16, 1872
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14831556
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Dead Heritage Image Partnership Injustice John Tenniel Joseph Swain Justice Killing Law Case Monster Mr Punch Punch Punchinello Sir John Tenniel Slaying Swain Tenniel Truth Perjury
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Mammals
> Muridae
> House Mouse
> Arts
> Artists
> C
> James Charles
> Arts
> Artists
> Related Images
> Arts
> Artists
> T
> John Tenniel
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> Charles White
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> John White
> Arts
> Minimalist artwork
> Monochrome artwork
> Fine art
> Arts
> Minimalist artwork
> Monochrome artwork
> Monochrome paintings
The Monster Slain, 1872
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a powerful and thought-provoking print by Joseph Swain, depicting the triumph of truth and justice over the monstrous forces of perjury and injustice. The artwork alludes to the infamous Tichborne case that captivated Victorian society for a decade. In this complex legal battle, the Claimant sought to prove his identity as Sir James Tichborne's eldest son but ultimately faced charges of perjury. Swain's cartoon captures the frustration and absurdity surrounding prolonged legal proceedings in Chancery courts during the 19th century. Many individuals were dragged into these cases against their will, leading to financial ruin. Charles Dickens masterfully portrayed such injustices in "Bleak House" where he highlighted how these never-ending lawsuits could consume lives. The image showcases a dead monster lying defeated on the ground, symbolizing victory for truth and justice wielded by Mr Punch with his trusty sword. It serves as a scathing commentary on corruption within the legal system while emphasizing that even seemingly insurmountable monsters can be slain when confronted with unwavering determination. This monochrome print evokes a sense of warfare through its use of swords as weapons, reflecting both literal battles fought throughout history and metaphorical struggles against societal wrongs. Through John Tenniel's collaboration with Swain, they effectively convey an atmosphere of tension and urgency prevalent during this era. "The Monster Slain" remains an enduring testament to humanity's relentless pursuit of justice amidst adversity—a reminder that even in dark times, truth has the power to prevail over deceitful monsters lurking within our midst.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
