Gathering for the Pantomime

Alfred Crowquill

Wood engraving by an unknown engraver

13¾ x 9½ inches

The Illustrated London News, 661.

One of Crowquill’s grotesque, visionary works; intended to be fun, a jolly image for the festive season, it seems to modern eyes more menacing that jovial. The ugliness of so many of the faces undermines the humour and implies a psychological tension that goes beyond the artist’s brief.

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Scanned image and text by Simon Cooke.

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