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Telescopic Philanthropy, 1865. Artist: John Tenniel
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Telescopic Philanthropy, 1865. Artist: John Tenniel
Telescopic Philanthropy, 1865. Little London Arab. Please M, Ain t We Black Enough to be Cared For? (With Mr. Punchs Compliments to Lord Stanley.) In his novel, Bleak House, Dickens had highlighted and satirised the growing numbers of the middle classes who expended much time, effort and money on raising funds to civilise (particularly black) foreign peoples, rather than concentrating on the problems of the poor at home. This telescopic philanthropy was epitomised by Mrs Jellyby in Bleak House, but here is represented by Britannia who has her eyes fixed so firmly on the distant horizon that she fails entirely to see the three children at her feet who, like Dickens Jo, represent the estimated 30, 000 homeless children living on the streets of London. From Punch, or the London Charivari, March 4, 1865
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Media ID 14830698
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Britannia Heritage Image Partnership Homeless Homelessness John Tenniel Overlooking Philanthropy Pleading Sir John Tenniel Telescope Tenniel Allegorical Figure Metaphor Overlooked Pathetic Street Urchin
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Telescopic Philanthropy, 1865
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a thought-provoking print by John Tenniel that captures the essence of societal neglect and misplaced priorities in 19th century Britain. Inspired by Charles Dickens' novel "Bleak House" this satirical artwork criticizes the middle classes who were more concerned with civilizing foreign peoples than addressing the dire conditions of their own impoverished citizens. In this allegorical scene, Britannia, symbolizing British power and influence, stands tall with her eyes fixed on distant horizons through a telescope. However, she remains oblivious to the three destitute children at her feet, representing the estimated 30,000 homeless children living on London's streets. Like Jo from Dickens' story, these forgotten souls are pleading for care and attention. Tenniel's monochrome engraving portrays a stark contrast between Britannia's grandeur and the pathetic state of those she overlooks. The artist highlights how philanthropic efforts were directed towards faraway lands while disregarding pressing issues at home. Through his masterful use of satire and metaphorical imagery, Tenniel challenges society to question its skewed priorities and take a closer look at its neglected citizens. This print serves as a powerful reminder that true philanthropy should begin within one's own community before extending beyond borders. "Telescopic Philanthropy" remains an enduring critique of social indifference in Victorian England while also resonating with contemporary discussions surrounding poverty alleviation and global responsibility.
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