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The New Stamp Duty, 1880. Artist: Joseph Swain
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The New Stamp Duty, 1880. Artist: Joseph Swain
The New Stamp Duty, 1880. The gentleman in the dark glasses is Mr Henry Fawcett, the blind Postmaster General. He had just introduced a scheme whereby small amounts could be saved in the Post Office Savings Bank by the accumulation of stamps. Twelve penny stamps could be put on one sheet and received as a deposit of one shilling. The little boy is posting his savings, but the little girl on the right has been sent by her more feckless parents to fetch a bottle of beer with their money. From Punch, or the London Charivari, November 27, 1880
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Media ID 14831699
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Alcohol Bank Beer Blind Bottle Bottles Disabilities Disability Disabled Fawcett Glasses Henry Heritage Image Partnership John Tenniel Joseph Swain Money Pillar Box Postbox Savings Sir John Tenniel Spectacles Swain Tenniel Top Hat Henry Fawcett Mr Fawcett Post Office Savings Bank Postal Service
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this 19th-century print titled "The New Stamp Duty" we are transported back in time to witness a significant moment in history. Created by renowned artists Joseph Swain, Henry Fawcett, and John Tenniel, the image captures the essence of Victorian society and its contrasting values. At the center of the composition stands Mr. Henry Fawcett, the blind Postmaster General, wearing dark glasses that shield his sightless eyes. He had recently introduced a revolutionary scheme allowing small amounts to be saved through stamps at the Post Office Savings Bank. A young boy eagerly posts his savings into a pillar box nearby – a symbol of hope for financial security. However, our attention is drawn to another figure on the right side of the image – a little girl sent by her less responsible parents with their hard-earned money to fetch a bottle of beer instead. This stark contrast between responsibility and recklessness serves as social commentary on how individuals choose to prioritize their finances. "The New Stamp Duty" is not merely an artistic creation; it is also a satirical caricature that sheds light on societal issues prevalent during that era. Through intricate engraving techniques and monochrome aesthetics, this heritage image provides us with valuable insights into communication systems, gender roles, disability representation, and even alcohol consumption in 19th-century Britain. As we gaze upon this remarkable piece from Heritage Images' collection, we are reminded of how art can transcend time and offer us glimpses into different periods while encouraging reflection on our own values today.
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