Untitled early cars
1904.
Original pen and ink sketch. Sheet measures 16.25" x 20.75".
This 1904 pen and ink cartoon depicts two anthropomorphic car caricatures. At the top of the page, a small car outfitted in the fashion of a young boy, blows a horn loudly while a family runs away in the distance. In his right hand he holds what appears to be a pacifier connected to a bag labeled "gasoline". The larger car below appears to be an adult gentleman; he wears a three piece suit and spats, complete with a top hat, cane, and cigar. Chickens appear in the foreground of the gentleman's scene, and the landscape in the background suggests the countryside. This cartoon may be a commentary on the design of early cars as they evolved from loud, inefficient, potentially dangerous machines to more streamlined and sophisticated modes of transport-- the young car representing the chaos of early cars and the older representing more advanced cars. It is also possible that the artist was portraying the difference between electric vehicles and those with internal combustion engines. While they quickly fell behind gas powered vehicles in popularity and quality, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries electric vehicles were quieter, cleaner, and easier to start. The young boy-car's gasoline pacifier could suggest an anti-gas engine sentiment, although this theory may not be substantiated as there is no suggestion of an electric motor in the other car; it could simply represent a more advanced gas automobile. Markings on the verso suggest this cartoon was drawn for Puck Magazine in October 1904, but lack of a publisher's stamp indicate that it may never have been published or circulated. Ink trials and other markings in the margins and on the verso give a special glimpse into illustration, printing, and publication processes for a popular magazine in the early 20th century. In good condition, some discoloration in margins and one small stain appear on the face. Image is very clear.
Illustrator: unknown
Binding: Unbound
Language: English
Price: $650.00
Item #326013