1871 Carlo "Spy" Pellegrini Vanity Fair Caricature

Item Details

An original 1871 chromolithographic illustration from the 19-20th century British magazine Vanity Fair by well-listed illustrator Carlo ‘Ape’ Pellegrini (1839-1889). This particular illustration is the 21st in the magazine’s series Men of the Day. It depicts Scottish painter and President of the Royal Academy, Sir Francis Grant (1803-1878). He stands in a dignified manner, and wears a high-end black tuxedo with a large gold chain. The print is signed in-plate. The magazine’s title and page number (166) are printed in the upper margin, and the quote ‘An able artist and an excellent President’ is printed in the lower margin. Extensive information written by the magazine about Grant can be seen on the verso through glass backing. The print is presented in a thin, patterned gilt frame with red accents.

Condition

-light yellowing to edges of page, consistent with age. Light scratching on edges of frame. A piece of masking tape with the number “85” written on it is attached to the verso.

Dimensions

Item #

15CIN448-578