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Reversing the Proverb, 1864. Artist: John Tenniel
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Reversing the Proverb, 1864. Artist: John Tenniel
Reversing the Proverb, 1864. The Oyster where it ought to be, And Shell and Shell the Lawyers Fee. Here, the plaintiff whose case is settled is walking away with the oyster, and the lawyer and barrister get the shells. Punch makes the point that usually it was the other way round. This cartoon may be satirising the length of the average Chancery case during the mid-Victorian period. Some of these cases might last for decades, and people joined in the case, sometimes against their wishes, were not unlikely to end up bankrupt by the costs of a case they had no desire to be involved in. From Punch, or the London Charivari, June 4, 1864
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Media ID 14830658
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Aquatic Life Barrister Cost Eating Gown Heritage Image Partnership John Tenniel Money Bag Oyster Seashell Shell Shellfish Sir John Tenniel Tenniel Lawyer
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Reversing the Proverb, 1864
EDITORS COMMENTS
by John Tenniel captures a satirical commentary on the legal system during the mid-Victorian period. In this thought-provoking cartoon, we witness a clever twist on a proverbial saying. The oyster, symbolizing victory and success in court cases, is seen where it rightfully belongs – in the hands of the plaintiff whose case has been settled. Meanwhile, the lawyers and barristers are left with mere shells as their reward. Tenniel's artwork sheds light on the prevailing issue of lengthy Chancery cases that plagued British society at that time. These drawn-out legal battles could drag on for decades, causing financial ruin to those unfortunate enough to be involved against their wishes. Bankruptcy became an all too common consequence due to exorbitant costs imposed by these never-ending lawsuits. The artist's monochrome depiction emphasizes both the seriousness and absurdity of this situation. Dressed in traditional gowns and wigs, men representing lawyers and barristers are shown clutching empty money bags while watching helplessly as justice prevails for once. Through his biting satire, Tenniel challenges societal norms and highlights how power dynamics can be reversed when justice is served swiftly and fairly. This print serves as a reminder of historical struggles within Britain's legal system while offering hope for change towards more equitable outcomes.
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