Vanity Fair Portraits of Victorian Gentlemen, 1870, Paper, Set of 3

Details

Description

Set of Three Vanity Fair Portraits – Victorian Statesmen, London 1870 This elegant set of three original Vanity Fair chromolithographs … Read more Set of Three Vanity Fair Portraits – Victorian Statesmen, London 1870 This elegant set of three original Vanity Fair chromolithographs dates from 1870 and presents a visually coherent trio of prominent Victorian public figures, issued as part of the celebrated “Men of the Day” and “Statesmen” series. Drawn and caricatured by Carlo Pellegrini, known by his signature “Ape,” these prints exemplify the refined wit, clarity, and graphic strength that made Vanity Fair one of the most influential illustrated journals of the 19th century. The central portrait depicts Colonel James Loyd-Lindsay, later 1st Baron Wantage, shown with cane and cigar. A decorated Crimean War veteran and influential advocate of the British Volunteer Force movement, he appears under the caption “He has succeeded in volunteering,” a contemporary reference to his military and civic role. The right-hand portrait shows Roundell Palmer, 1st Earl of Selborne, wearing legal robes. Palmer served twice as Lord Chancellor of Great Britain and was widely respected for his legal authority and personal integrity. The caption refers to his restraint and discretion in a sensitive royal legal matter, reinforcing his public reputation. The left-hand portrait, issued in the “Statesmen” series, represents a senior Victorian political figure in formal evening dress with top hat and cane. While not named directly on the sheet, the portrait follows Vanity Fair’s established practice of depicting leading parliamentary personalities of the period and complements the other two figures in scale, style, and visual impact. All three figures are shown full-length against clean, neutral backgrounds, allowing posture, costume, and character to dominate. The restrained palette of soft creams, greys, and blacks makes the set highly versatile for interiors. Offered together as a matched horizontal suite, the three prints create a balanced and authoritative wall display, ideal for a study, library, hallway, or living space. Printed in London in 1870, these works combine historical authenticity with timeless decorative appeal and are offered as a set only, ready to hang and enjoy. Condition report: Overall very good condition. Light age-related toning and minor surface marks consistent with late 19th-century chromolithographs. Clean impressions with good margins. Framing tips: Best displayed as a horizontal trio in matching frames. Use soft ivory or light taupe mats with simple black, dark brown, or antique gilt frames for a refined, interior-friendly look. Technique: Chromolithography Maker: Carlo Pellegrini (“Ape”), published by Vanity Fair, London Date: 1870 See less