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A Word to the Mermaids, 1865. Artist: John Tenniel
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A Word to the Mermaids, 1865. Artist: John Tenniel
A Word to the Mermaids, 1865. Neptune exclaims Aho-o-o-o-oy, There! Get Off O That Ere Cable, Can t Yer - Thats the Way T Other one was Wrecked!!! Neptune hollering at a clutch of mermaids who seem to enjoy using the precious cable as a plaything. In 1858, the first transatlantic cable had been laid in a joint effort by America and Britain. Unfortunately, the cable had failed after some three weeks. Now, after the end of the American Civil War, another effort was made by the steamer Great Eastern. It was accompanied by the Sphinx and the Terrible, but again, problems were encountered and Great Eastern had to return to Valentia on the west coast of Ireland. From Punch, or the London Charivari, August 5, 1865
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Media ID 14830724
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Cable Heritage Image Partnership John Tenniel Mermaid Neptune Poseidon Reprimanding Shouting Sir John Tenniel Tenniel Transatlantic Communications Cable Trident Mythical Beast Mythical Creature
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A Word to the Mermaids, 1865
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating print by renowned artist John Tenniel that captures a whimsical yet significant moment in history. Depicting Neptune, the god of the sea, hollering at a group of mischievous mermaids who are using a transatlantic communications cable as their plaything, this artwork provides an insightful commentary on the challenges faced during early attempts at global communication. In 1858, America and Britain collaborated to lay the first transatlantic cable. However, it failed after only three weeks. Following the end of the American Civil War, another effort was made with Great Eastern leading the expedition accompanied by Sphinx and Terrible. Unfortunately, further complications arose forcing Great Eastern to return to Valentia in Ireland. Tenniel's satirical portrayal showcases Neptune reprimanding these playful mermaids for their disregard of such a precious resource. With his trident raised high and his exclamation "Aho-o-o-o-oy there! Get off o' that ere cable can't yer - That's the way t'other one was wrecked!!!", Neptune symbolizes authority and frustration towards those who take something valuable for granted. This black-and-white engraving not only highlights Tenniel's artistic prowess but also serves as a historical artifact from the 19th century. It combines elements of mythology, geography, religion, and satire to create an image that both entertains and educates viewers about an important milestone in transatlantic communication. As we admire this heritage image partnership print today, let us remember how far we have come in our ability to connect across vast distances while appreciating those pioneers who paved the way for modern telecommunications.
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