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A Friend in Need, 1873. Artist: Joseph Swain
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A Friend in Need, 1873. Artist: Joseph Swain
A Friend in Need, 1873. Mr Gladstone is seen here with John Bright. In the background, an African man, dressed in skins and feathers is nonetheless armed with a very modern rifle. Recently, Gladstone had offered Bright the office of Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. However, Bright took office just at the time that the Ashanti Campaign began. Sir Garnet Wolsely, the administrator on the Gold Coast, launched an expedition against Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti, as it was believed that they were threatening existing British settlements. Kumasi fell early in 1874 and peace was agreed. However, Mr Gladstone is shown as requesting John Brights support, despite it being very well-known that Mr Bright held strong peace principles. From Punch, or the London Charivari, October 11, 1873
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Media ID 14831672
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Bright Feather Feathers Gladstone Heritage Image Partnership John Bright John Tenniel Joseph Swain Liberal Liberal Party Prime Minister Rifle Sir John Tenniel Swain Tenniel War Dress William Ewart William Ewart Gladstone
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this print titled "A Friend in Need, 1873" we are transported back to a significant moment in British political history. The artwork, created by Joseph Swain and featuring the collaboration of John Bright, John Tenniel, and William Ewart Gladstone, captures a pivotal scene amidst the backdrop of the Ashanti Campaign. The image portrays Mr. Gladstone alongside John Bright, with an intriguing African man standing behind them. Dressed in traditional skins and feathers but armed with a modern rifle, he symbolizes the clash between ancient traditions and contemporary warfare. At this time, Mr. Gladstone had offered Mr. Bright the prestigious position of Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. However, fate intervened as Bright assumed office just as the Ashanti Campaign commenced. Sir Garnet Wolsely led an expedition against Kumasi to protect existing British settlements from perceived threats by the Ashanti people. Despite their differing views on peace principles – which were well-known – Mr. Gladstone is depicted here seeking support from his friend during this tumultuous period. This thought-provoking engraving not only highlights political alliances but also explores themes such as colonialism and cultural clashes within 19th-century Britain's liberal party. Through its monochromatic composition and intricate details, this heritage image partnership print invites us to reflect upon historical events while contemplating broader concepts like war dress, weaponry advancements, and statesmanship during that era.
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