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This anthropomorphic map of Spain and Portugal, along with Gibraltar, was published in Geographical Fun (London, 1868). It is a humorous depiction of these nations as characters engaged in symbolic interactions, reflecting both their cultural identities and political dynamics during the 19th century.
The map portrays Portugal as a bear clad in green, holding a cluster of grapes, symbolizing its famous wine industry. Spain is depicted as a regal woman in an elaborate gown, representing its tradition of grandeur and elegance. The juxtaposition of these two figures is intended to underscore the historical and cultural connections between the Iberian nations, despite their divisions. Gibraltar is adorned with the Union Jack, highlighting British control over this strategic territory.
The design reflects contemporary geopolitical themes, with the accompanying verse making reference to General Juan Prim, a prominent Spanish military leader and statesman who played a key role in the political upheavals of the 1860s. The text suggests a hopeful reconciliation between Spain and Portugal under stable rule, while humorously referencing the idyllic aspirations of prosperity and peace for the region’s inhabitants.
This map is part of Geographical Fun, an atlas of caricature maps of European countries that blends art, humor, and political commentary. According to the preface, the illustrations were drawn by a fifteen-year-old girl (Lilian Lancaster) to entertain her ailing brother; however, the maps are widely attributed to William Harvey (1796–1873), a London doctor and journalist. Harvey was also known for his literary work, particularly London Scenes and London People (1863).
The atlas serves as a lighthearted yet insightful reflection of the major political changes shaping Europe at the time, including the rise of figures like Giuseppe Garibaldi in Italy and Otto von Bismarck in Germany. Each map combines playful anthropomorphic imagery with subtle commentary on national characteristics and international relationships.
The map exemplifies the Victorian era's fascination with combining education and entertainment, using caricature to engage audiences with geography and current events. Its whimsical representation of Spain and Portugal offers both a humorous take on their cultural identities and a snapshot of 19th-century political sentiments.
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.
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