Home > Arts > Artists > T > John Tenniel
Under the Dark Blue Waters, 1872. Artist: Joseph Swain
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Under the Dark Blue Waters, 1872. Artist: Joseph Swain
Under the Dark Blue Waters, 1872. Father Neptune wishes to relax with his drink and a pipe. In front of him is the trans-Atlantic cable, the first of its kind, and used to telegraph messages all the way from Britain to America. However, it is now being used to telegraph squabbles and vitriol. This relates to a matter that had been causing difficulties between the two nations ever since the end of the American Civil War. The Alabama Claims, mentioned on the cable in the cartoon, had been prompted by the damage done to American commerce by the Alabama, a privateer fitted out in England. The main issue was whether England should have prevented the ship from leaving port. The amount claimed in respect of indirect damages continued to grow. From Punch, or the London Charivari, May 25, 1872
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14831570
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Alabama American Civil War Atlantic Ocean Foreign Affairs Foreign Policy Heritage Image Partnership John Tenniel Joseph Swain Mermaid Neptune Ocean Poseidon Sir John Tenniel Swain Telecommunication Telecommunications Telegraph Tenniel Transatlantic Communications Cable Trident Mythical Beast Mythical Creature
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> T
> John Tenniel
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Politics
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Politics
> North America
> United States of America
> Alabama
> Related Images
> Popular Themes
> Mythical Beasts
Under the Dark Blue Waters, 1872
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating print that delves into the intricate web of politics and foreign affairs during the 19th century. Created by renowned artists Joseph Swain and John Tenniel, this monochrome engraving transports us to the depths of the Atlantic Ocean where Father Neptune seeks solace amidst turbulent times. In this satirical cartoon, we witness Father Neptune indulging in his drink and pipe while gazing at the trans-Atlantic cable before him. This groundbreaking invention facilitated telegraph communication between Britain and America but has now become a conduit for squabbles and vitriol between these nations. The cartoon alludes to an ongoing conflict known as the Alabama Claims, stemming from damages caused to American commerce by a privateer fitted out in England. The central issue revolves around whether England should have prevented this ship from leaving port. As tensions rise, so does the amount claimed for indirect damages. Through clever caricature and symbolism, "Under the Dark Blue Waters" highlights how technology can be manipulated for political gain. It reminds us of our complex relationship with foreign policy and raises questions about accountability on a global scale. This heritage image partnership print serves as both a historical artifact and a thought-provoking piece of art that captures not only an era but also timeless themes such as power dynamics, mythology, transportation advancements, religious undertones, and national identity.
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.
