Set of 6 framed chromolithograph caricature portraits published by the British society weekly magazine Vanity Fair (1868-1914). Vanity Fair showcased satirical caricatures of notable figures of the time, known as "Men of the Day," specifically Politicians, Lawyers and Diplomats. Produced in chromolithography by Vincent Brooks, Day & Sons Ltd.

See my other listing for a set of 2 "Men of the Day" doctors and scientists.

The portraits are beautifully framed in rustic aged oak with gold-accented hand-colored mats. Each frame measures 15" x 22". These are original antique chromolithographs taken from the pages of the magazine, dating from 1879 to 1907 and accompanied by the original magazine text affixed to the backs of the frames. They were framed sometime in the 1930s or 1940s. Note the 5-digit phone number of the framers on the back stickers, which attest to the age of the framing. The pieces come with wired backs, making them ready to hang.

The sophisticated and satirical set would be perfect for a library or office. The sepia tones and neutral colors complement a variety of decors. Great gift for a law school graduate or poly sci major.

The set of 6 includes:

"Jack", a caricature portrait of Sir John Burgess Karslake, an English lawyer and politician. Published in Vanity Fair on February 22, 1873, No. 255, in the series Men of the Day, No. 56. It is unsigned by the artist, Godfrey Douglas Giles.

"Ex-President Steyn," a caricature portrait of Martinus Theunis Stein, a South African lawyer, politician, and statesman. Published in Vanity Fair, August 9th, 1900. Signed "wag" by artist Arthur George Witherby.

"Elisha," a caricature portrait of Mr. John Edward Redmond, an Irish nationalist politician, barrister, and MP in the House of Commons of the United Kingdom. Published in Vanity Fair on November 12, 1892. Signed "spy" by artist Leslie Matthew Ward.

"A Diplomatic Cousin," a caricature portrait of Henry White, a prominent American diplomat and one of the signers of the Treaty of Versailles. Published in Vanity Fair on March 16, 1899.
Signed "spy" by artist Leslie Matthew Ward.

"Burials," a caricature portrait of George Osborne Morgan, a Welsh lawyer who became a Queen's Counsel and was a promoter of the burials bill. Published in Vanity Fair on May 17, 1879. Signed "spy" by artist Leslie Matthew Ward.

"The United States," a caricature portrait of Thomas Francis Bayard, an American lawyer, politician, and diplomat, who served as Ambassador to Great Britain. Published in Vanity Fair on June 28, 1894. Signed "spy" by artist Leslie Matthew Ward.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: This is a stunning set for anyone who appreciates antique art. The oak frames were intentionally aged at the time of production and feature wormholes and signs of wear, contributing to their charming vintage appeal. The chromolithographs are beautifully framed, with some expected foxing and fading due to their age. They have not been examined outside their frames. Please note the room setting photo is virtually staged for illustration purposes only. All other photos are of the actual items.

Origin:
United Kingdom

Materials & Techniques:
Glass, Oak, Paper

Winning bidders will be contacted regarding shipping after the auction closes.

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; This is a stunning set for anyone who appreciates antique art. The oak frames were intentionally aged at the time of production and feature wormholes and signs of wear, contributing to their charming vintage appeal. The chromolithographs are beautifully framed, with some expected foxing and fading due to their age. They have not been examined outside their frames. Please note the room setting photo is virtually staged for illustration purposes only. All other photos are of the actual items.