Autograph Letter Signed By Sir John Tenniel: The Illustrator Of Alice’s Adventures In Wonderland

Author: Tenniel, Sir John
Price: £200
Medium: Autograph letter signed
Format: Paper
Sheet Size: 18.4cm x 22.6cm
Condition: Near fine

Description:
A two page autograph letter to a lady in which Sir John Tenniel thanks wishes her his “best thanks for your kind and extremely beautiful Christmas present. I read the story with great pleasure some time since in the ‘Art Union’. I think it is quite delightful and in its present dress, a perfect gem… With much respect, Yours faithfully John Tenniel”.

Condition: Old fold lines. In near fine, bright, clean condition. Scarce.

Sir John Tenniel: A Short Biography

Sir John Tenniel (1820–1914) was a prominent British illustrator, graphic artist, and political cartoonist, best known for his iconic illustrations in Lewis Carroll’s book “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” (1865) and “Through the Looking-Glass” (1871). Tenniel’s work has left a lasting impact on the visual arts, particularly in the realms of illustration and political satire.

Early Life and Career

• Early Talent: Born in London, Tenniel showed artistic talent from a young age. He received some formal training at the Royal Academy of Arts, but he was largely self-taught, developing his own style through practice and observation.
• Punch Magazine: In 1850, Tenniel became a chief cartoonist for Punch magazine, a leading British satirical publication. He worked there for over 50 years, producing more than 2,000 cartoons. His work for Punch was highly influential, helping to shape public opinion on political issues of the time.

Illustration Style

• Precise and Detailed: Tenniel’s illustrations are characterised by their precision, fine detail, and strong sense of composition. He was meticulous in his work, often creating highly detailed preliminary sketches before finalizing his illustrations.
• Influence of Classical Art: Tenniel’s work often drew on classical art traditions. His figures are frequently rendered with a sense of solidity and weight, and his compositions are carefully balanced, reflecting the influence of Renaissance and neoclassical art.
• Subtle Humour and Satire: While Tenniel’s political cartoons were sharp and often critical, his illustrations for children’s books, especially the “Alice” books, were infused with a gentler, more whimsical humour. His ability to capture the absurdity and whimsy of Carroll’s world was key to the success of the Alice illustrations.

The Alice Illustrations

• Defining the Visual Identity of Wonderland: Tenniel’s illustrations for “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking-Glass” are some of the most iconic images in children’s literature. His depictions of characters like Alice, the White Rabbit, the Mad Hatter, and The Queen of Hearts have become the definitive visual representations of these characters.
• Wood Engraving Technique: Tenniel worked closely with engravers to transfer his drawings to woodblocks for printing. The high quality of these engravings ensured that his intricate line work and shading were faithfully reproduced, contributing to the enduring appeal of the Alice illustrations.

Legacy

• Knighted for Contributions to Art: In 1893, Tenniel was knighted by Queen Victoria, making him one of the few illustrators to receive such an honour. This recognition was a testament to his influence on both the literary and political landscapes of Victorian England.
• Enduring Influence: Tenniel’s work continues to influence illustrators and artists. His Alice illustrations have been reproduced in countless editions, and his political cartoons are still studied as exemplary works of satire.
• Cultural Impact: The visual style he developed for the “Alice” books has shaped how these stories are imagined and portrayed in various media, including film, theater, and animation.

Sir John Tenniel’s blend of artistic skill, satirical insight, and imaginative vision makes him a key figure in the history of illustration and visual culture. His work remains a significant part of the artistic heritage of the Victorian era, with an influence that continues to be felt today.

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