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The British Beehive, 1867 (litho)
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The British Beehive, 1867 (litho)
XJF393818 The British Beehive, 1867 (litho) by Cruikshank, George (1792-1878); Private Collection; (add.info.: cartoon sketched by Cruikshank in 1840 but only published by him in 1867; his pictorial portrayal of Victorian society in Britain was intended to support his view that it was unnecessary to extend the electoral franchise; ); English, out of copyright
Media ID 12872329
© www.bridgemanart.com
Activity Analysis Baker Bank Bankers Banking Banks Bookseller Breakdown Bricklayer Buses Butcher Cabman Conservative Draper Dustman Engineer Free Trade Greengrocer Hatter Hierarchy Jobs Mason Middle Class Morality Opinion Ostler Parliament Professions Royal Family Schools Shoeblack Smith Sociology Sweep Tailor Trades Trams Union Jack Upholsterer Votes Voting Weaver Working Class Queen Bee Queen Victoria Status Quo
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The British Beehive, 1867
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating lithograph by George Cruikshank that offers a thought-provoking glimpse into Victorian society. Originally sketched in 1840 but published later, this cartoon serves as an artistic commentary on the social and political landscape of the time. Cruikshank's intricate portrayal showcases various aspects of Victorian life, ranging from parliament and trial by jury to religion, medicine, education, and art. The print captures the bustling activity of different professions and trades such as butchers, bakers, greengrocers, tailors, engineers, cabmen, shoeblacks - all contributing to the vibrant tapestry of society. The artist's intention was to support his view against extending the electoral franchise. Through this visual breakdown and analysis of hierarchy within British society - monarchy, aristocracy, middle class - Cruikshank challenges prevailing notions about values and morals. Symbolically represented by worker bees buzzing around their hive-like banks with bankers at its core; "The British Beehive" reflects upon politics and banking while subtly critiquing conservative views. It also highlights the importance of work ethic and labor across different sectors. With Queen Victoria reigning over it all under the Union Jack flag representing imperial power; this lithograph encapsulates both societal structure and individual opinions within Victorian Britain. As we explore this historical artwork today through Fine Art Finder's collection; let us reflect on how it continues to resonate with contemporary discussions surrounding social hierarchies and political systems.
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