THE VANITY FAIR COLLECTION

Original Victorian & Edwardian Caricatures — 1869–1914

Ember Antiques Art & Clocks presents a growing collection of original Vanity Fair caricatures depicting some of the most influential, colourful and fascinating personalities of the Victorian and Edwardian eras.

First published in 1869, Vanity Fair became celebrated for its distinctive full-length caricatures of the prominent figures of the day — politicians, aristocrats, military leaders, judges, surgeons, industrialists, sportsmen, financiers and international personalities.

The portraits were created by some of the finest caricaturists of the period, most famously Sir Leslie Ward (“Spy”) and Carlo Pellegrini (“Ape”), together with a number of other accomplished artists.

ORIGINAL PERIOD CHROMOLITHOGRAPHS

Often incorrectly described as hand-coloured engravings, many of these famous Vanity Fair portraits were actually produced as colour chromolithographs, a sophisticated form of nineteenth-century colour printing.

Each was originally published as a supplement to Vanity Fair, typically accompanied by a memorable title or caption reflecting the sitter's reputation, profession or public persona.

HISTORY WITH CHARACTER

The appeal of Vanity Fair caricatures extends well beyond their decorative qualities. Each portrait provides a fascinating window into the personalities, institutions and society of its time.

Ember's collection includes works from the celebrated “Men of the Day” series and other Vanity Fair subjects, with the collection continuing to expand as interesting and historically significant examples are acquired.

Each work is individually researched and catalogued wherever possible, identifying the sitter, artist, publication date, series and historical significance.