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This anthropomorphic map of Belgium and the Netherlands, created by Lilian Lancaster and published by William Harvey under the pseudonym Aleph. At just fifteen years old, Lancaster drew a series of twelve anthropomorphic maps of European countries to entertain her ill brother, which were later published by Harvey under the title Geographical Fun: Humorous Outlines of Various Countries in 1868.
The map is a satirical representation of the two countries as human figures. "Dame Holland," elegantly attired in a flowing dress, is depicted holding "Master Belgium" in her arms. Belgium, though dressed in a childlike long skirt, incongruously smokes a cigar, adding a humorous and ironic element to the illustration. The accompanying verse by "Aleph" (the pseudonym of journalist William Harvey) further enhances the playful tone:
"Dame Holland, trick’d out in her gala clothes,
And Master Belgium, with a punchy nose;
Seem on the map to represent a land,
By patriot worth, and perfect art made grand."
The map transforms the geographical outlines of the Netherlands and Belgium into stylized human forms. Holland’s coastline and waterways are integrated into Dame Holland’s dress and features, while Belgium’s rounded shape becomes the figure of a child-like companion. The satirical tone is underscored by the incongruity of Belgium’s attire and the cigar, which might comment on the youthful nation’s emerging identity following its independence in 1830.xt
Published as part of Geographical Fun, a collection of 12 allegorical maps of European countries, this illustration reflects the Victorian era’s fascination with using humor and art to engage with geography and current events. The atlas blends education with entertainment, offering both an artistic rendering of maps and a playful commentary on the political and cultural identities of nations.
Lilian Lancaster, known to map enthusiasts and collectors, is celebrated for her unique contribution to Victorian map art. At just fifteen years old, she created a series of twelve anthropomorphic maps of European countries to entertain her ill brother, which were later published in Geographical Fun: Humorous Outlines of Various Countries in 1868. These maps, accompanied by humorous rhyming verses penned by "Aleph," a pseudonym for journalist and Islington antiquary Dr. William Harvey (1796–1873), remain iconic examples of whimsical cartography. While the connection between Lancaster and Harvey remains mysterious, the collaboration resulted in a unique cultural artifact of its time.
Born in 1852 in London, Lancaster faced early adversity, losing her father just before her fourth birthday. Her widowed mother worked tirelessly to support the family, which fostered Lancaster's resilience and creativity. She grew up among a close-knit circle of family, including her aunt and cousins, the Pococks, who were prominent London merchants and landowners. The Pococks' connections in Islington likely introduced her to Dr. Harvey, laying the groundwork for her entry into the literary and artistic world.
Lancaster's later career diverged into the performing arts, where she emerged as a talented actress and singer. In the early 1870s, she joined the Haymarket Theatre, launching a stage career that showcased her charisma and sharp understanding of theatrical business. Her brother, William James Lancaster, himself an actor and theatrical manager, and his Irish comedian wife may have played a role in encouraging her transition to the stage.
A highlight of Lancaster’s career came in 1880–81 when she toured the United States with George Conquest's Grim Goblin Pantomime Company, performing at Wallack's Theatre in New York. Despite a series of misfortunes, including injuries to Conquest and other performers, Lancaster’s performance in Lardy Dah, Lardy Dah!, a lively comic song, earned her critical acclaim.
![Les Campemens des Armees du Roy dans les Pays-Bay depuis L'Annee 1690, jusques en 1695 dedies a sa Majeste . . . [The Camps of the King's Armies in the Netherlands from the year 1690, until 1695 dedicated to his Majesty. . .]](https://storage.googleapis.com/raremaps/img/small/87565.jpg)
