Home > Arts > Artists > T > John Tenniel
A Holiday Task, 1880. Artist: Joseph Swain
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
A Holiday Task, 1880. Artist: Joseph Swain
A Holiday Task, 1880. A bewhiskered aristocrat is handed a broom by Mr Punch and told to begin cleaning up. Great pieces of the inner cities were owned by the aristocracy. Rents were expensive, whilst conditions were appalling. The owners would rarely visit their holdings, leaving business to do with leases and rent collection to their representatives. Few made any effort to ensure that the accommodation provided was habitable. From Punch, or the London Charivari, September 25, 1880
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14831687
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Angry Broom Cape Cleaning Heritage Image Partnership Holiday Holidays Housing John Tenniel Joseph Swain Leaf Leaves Messy Mr Punch Punch Punchinello Sir John Tenniel Spring Cleaning Swain Tenniel Top Hat Untidy Aristocrat
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> Related Images
> Arts
> Artists
> T
> John Tenniel
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> John White
> Arts
> Minimalist artwork
> Monochrome artwork
> Fine art
> Arts
> Minimalist artwork
> Monochrome artwork
> Monochrome paintings
A Holiday Task, 1880
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating print that captures the stark contrast between the privileged aristocracy and the dire living conditions of the inner cities in Victorian England. In this satirical depiction by Joseph Swain, an aristocratic gentleman with a distinguished beard and top hat is reluctantly handed a broom by Mr Punch, symbolizing his responsibility to clean up his own mess. During this era, many wealthy landowners owned vast portions of city property but rarely visited or took care of their holdings. Instead, they entrusted leases and rent collection to their representatives while neglecting to ensure habitable living conditions for their tenants. This cartoon serves as a scathing critique on the indifference of these absentee landlords towards the plight of those residing in their properties. The image portrays not only social inequality but also highlights the concept of spring cleaning during holidays. The untidy surroundings filled with fallen leaves further emphasize negligence and disarray within these neglected urban areas. Through its monochrome black-and-white style, this engraving evokes a sense of nostalgia for 19th-century London while shedding light on societal issues that persist today. "A Holiday Task, 1880" stands as both a historical artifact and a reminder that even amidst leisurely holiday activities, there are responsibilities we must face – especially when it comes to ensuring fair treatment and livable conditions for all members of society.
MADE IN THE USA
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 Cart.
