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Obvious on the Face of it. H. M. Bateman cartoon
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Obvious on the Face of it. H. M. Bateman cartoon
Obvious on the Face of it: " How does the war affect you, old fellow?" " Oh! Frightfully, old man - frightfully!" This cartoon from early in the First World War depicts two well-to-do gentlemen enjoying a cigar and a glass of wine. The two men laugh at how little the outbreak of war has affected their priveliged lifestyles, with the artist drily suggesting that it is obvious that the upper crust have had no need to economise during wartime. Date: 1914
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Media ID 14230635
© Estate of H M Bateman/ILN/Mary Evans Picture Library
Bateman Cigar Cigars Fellow Fellows Gentleman Gentlemen Laugh Obvious Wine
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Obvious on the Face of it
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a satirical cartoon by the renowned British humorist, H.M. Bateman, published in 1914, at the onset of the First World War. The image captures two well-dressed gentlemen, seated in comfortable armchairs, engaged in a leisurely conversation while enjoying a cigar and a glass of wine. Their relaxed demeanor and jovial expressions starkly contrast the grim reality of the war that was raging across Europe. The caption of the cartoon reads, "How does the war affect you, old fellow?" to which the response is, "Oh! Frightfully, old man - frightfully!" The irony lies in the fact that the two men, despite the war's devastating impact on the common people, seem to have experienced no significant disruption to their privileged lifestyles. Bateman's dry wit is evident in the way he highlights the obliviousness of the upper class to the hardships of the war. The gentlemen in the cartoon are dressed in top hats and waistcoats, symbolizing their wealth and status. Their unperturbed expressions and luxurious surroundings serve to underscore the stark divide between the privileged few and the suffering masses. The cartoon is a poignant commentary on the callousness and indifference of the elite towards the plight of the common people during wartime. This classic Bateman cartoon is a testament to the power of satire in revealing the truths that lie beneath the surface of society. It serves as a reminder of the human capacity for denial and the importance of staying informed and empathetic, especially during times of crisis. The image is a valuable historical document, offering insights into the social and political climate of the early 20th century.
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