Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Politics > Benjamin Disraeli
Cartoon, The Sphinx is Silent (Disraeli foreign policy)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Cartoon, The Sphinx is Silent (Disraeli foreign policy)
Cartoon, The Sphinx is Silent -- Benjamin Disraeli, Conservative Prime Minister, depicted as the Sphinx, with people below begging him to speak. A satirical reference to his purchase of Suez Canal Shares, and also to his silence about government policy on the Eastern Question, since Serbia and Montenegro had declared war against Turkey. Date: 1876
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23361658
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1876 Begging Benjamin Canal Conservative Disraeli Minister Prime Shares Silent Sphinx Suez Tory
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Asia
> Turkey
> Related Images
> Europe
> Montenegro
> Politics
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Politics
> Benjamin Disraeli
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
> People
> Politicians
The Sphinx is Silent
EDITORS COMMENTS
: A Satirical Take on Disraeli's Foreign Policy during the Eastern Crisis of 1876 This intriguing cartoon, titled "The Sphinx is Silent," depicts Benjamin Disraeli, the Conservative Prime Minister of Britain during the late Victorian era, as the enigmatic Sphinx from ancient Egyptian mythology. The image, created in 1876, is a scathing commentary on Disraeli's controversial foreign policy, particularly his handling of the Suez Canal shares purchase and his silence on the Eastern Question. At the foot of the Sphinx, a crowd of anxious figures is gathered, pleading with Disraeli to speak. The people's desperation is evident as they clamor for answers regarding their government's stance on the escalating conflict between Serbia and Montenegro against Turkey. The Eastern Question, a complex web of political intrigue and territorial disputes in the Middle East, had reached a boiling point, and the public was eager for clear direction from their leaders. The cartoon's satirical intent is further emphasized by the reference to Disraeli's recent acquisition of Suez Canal shares. The purchase, which was kept secret from the British public, sparked widespread controversy and fueled accusations of corruption and self-interest. By depicting Disraeli as the Sphinx, the cartoonist highlights the Prime Minister's enigmatic nature and his perceived unwillingness to communicate openly with the people. The "Sphinx is Silent" cartoon is a poignant reminder of the political climate of the late 19th century, where complex international issues and the desire for transparency often collided. The image continues to resonate today, offering valuable insights into the intricacies of diplomacy and the role of public opinion in shaping political discourse.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.