"the Gull's friend" Vanity Fair caricature. Mr. Christopher Sykes, M.P. c1875.

by Carlo Pellegrini (Ape)

Original Vanity Fair lithograph "the Gull's friend" from a watercolour caricature of Mr. Christopher Sykes, M.P. Statesmen. No. CXC (190) on November 14 1874. The accompanying text states "...Possessed of a fine income not open to the suspicion of having been acquired by any unworthy exertions, the proprietor of a commanding figure, of a seat in the country and in the House of Commons, distinguished by the most gracious acquaintance of all the superior Personages in London, and blessed with a patient and enduring good nature, "Christopher, as he has long been called in tribute to his familiar popularity, has been and even still is one of the most known and best known men in London.  ...in legislation he has distinguished himself as the gull's friend by introducing and carrying a Bill for the protection of the sea-bird's life and eggs."

Established by Thomas Gibson Bowles (1841-1922), Vanity Fair was a weekly magazine of social comment, published in London from 1868 to 1914. With eight to ten pages each issue, Vanity Fair magazine's popularity was guaranteed with the inclusion of an amusing caricature, lithographed from a watercolour, parodying any newsworthy personage. Over the years of publication it became a mark of honour to be the 'victim' of one of the magazine's caricaturists. The publisher who was also editor and main journalist, accompanied each caricature with a witty text, written under the pseudonym 'Jehu Junior' (after the biblical prophet who effected the downfall of his enemies). Bowles considered the caricatures made grim faces more grim, grotesque figures more grotesque, and dull people duller by the genius of ‘Ape’" (Carlo Pellegrini, 1839-1889). It was the first time lithography had been used for caricatures. They were printed by the eminent lithographer, Vincent Brooks (1814-1885).

Page size 355 x 230 (14 x 9 inches). In fair condition except for some foxing in the left margin and Indian ink number "48" at top right.