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The Beard and Moustache Movement, John Leech
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The Beard and Moustache Movement, John Leech
The Beard and Moustache Movement, cartoon in Punch by John Leech commenting on the fashion for large beards. Railway Guard: Now, ma am, is this your luggage? Old Lady (who concludes she is being attacked by brigands): Oh yes! Gentlemen, its mine. Take it - take all I have; but spare, oh spare our lives! Date: 1853
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Beards Facial Fashions Guard Guards Leech Moustache Movement Porter Porters Punch
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This print by John Leech, published in Punch magazine in 1853, humorously captures the height of the Beard and Moustache Movement in Victorian England. In the cartoon, a railway guard, with an impressively large beard and bushy moustache, is interrogating an old lady about her luggage. The scene is filled with tension as the lady, believing she is being robbed, pleads for her life, while the guard, with a smirk on his face, assures her that he is only doing his job. The Beard and Moustache Movement was a popular trend during the mid-19th century, with men of all walks of life growing out their facial hair in extravagant styles. This fashion statement was not only a sign of masculinity and virility but also a symbol of wealth and status. The movement gained immense popularity, leading to the establishment of the first beard club in London in 1860. John Leech, a renowned English cartoonist, expertly captures the essence of this fashion trend in his work. The cartoon's humorous take on the situation adds to the amusement, making it a fascinating glimpse into the past. The intricate details of the characters' facial hair, their expressions, and the setting all contribute to the overall charm of this print. This piece of history is a testament to the power of fashion and the role it plays in shaping society. It is a reminder that even the most unusual trends can capture the imagination of the public and become a defining aspect of a particular era.
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