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This anthropomorphic map of Prussia, 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 humorously reimagines Prussia as two historical figures: Wilhelm I, the King of Prussia, and Otto von Bismarck, his chancellor and architect of German unification. With its clever use of caricature, the map combines geography with political satire, offering both entertainment and commentary on the role of Prussia in 19th-century European politics. It includes a rhyme in the lower margin and pictorial elements such as the Prussian flag and coat of arms.
The map creatively transforms the geographic outline of Prussia into two anthropomorphic figures. Wilhelm I is depicted as a large, imposing figure occupying the eastern portion of the country. His blue military uniform and spiked Pickelhaube (helmet) emphasize Prussia’s militaristic character under his leadership. In contrast, Otto von Bismarck crouches in the western provinces, wearing a red cloak and hat that highlight his role as a statesman and diplomat. Bismarck is shown holding a quill and paper, symbolizing his contributions to the political and diplomatic strategies that defined Prussia’s dominance during this period.
While primarily a caricature, the map retains a degree of geographic accuracy, marking significant regions such as the Rhenish Provinces, Westphalia, and Poland. Key waterways, including the Baltic Sea (Ost See), are also labeled. The positioning of Wilhelm and Bismarck within the map reflects Prussia’s territorial ambitions, with Wilhelm facing eastward toward expansion and Bismarck anchoring the west, representing his role in consolidating control over the German states.
The map captures a pivotal moment in Prussian history, following the Austro-Prussian War of 1866, in which Prussia defeated Austria to establish itself as the dominant power in northern Germany. The map’s satirical portrayal of Prussia’s leadership foreshadows the events leading to German unification in 1871, emphasizing the outsized roles of Wilhelm and Bismarck in shaping this historical transformation.
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.
