The artwork titled “Statesman No.094° – Caricature of Alderman Andrew Lusk M.P.” was crafted by artist James Tissot in 1871. As part of the art movement Realism, this piece falls under the genre of caricature and is a constituent of the “Statesman (Caricatures)” series.
The artwork portrays Alderman Andrew Lusk in a caricature style, offering a humorous and exaggerated representation typical of caricatures of the era. The figure is depicted with a lively expression, smiling broadly as he seems to be in middle of a conversation or perhaps delivering a speech. He is holding an unrolled document or newspaper, pointing to a specific section as if to emphasize a particular point of interest.
His attire suggests a formal and respectable status, clad in what appears to be a tailored coat and waistcoat, with a shirt and a bowtie pointing to the costume of a Victorian gentleman. His hair and facial hair are depicted with particular attention to detail, accentuating the white color that hints at his senior age.
The top of the artwork features the title “VANITY FAIR” and the date “Oct. 7, 1871,” situating the piece within the broader context of the time period in which it was produced. Below the figure, a label reads “STATESMEN 94,” accompanied by the intriguing quotation “‘Now I want to know,'” seemingly capturing a signature phrase or sentiment associated with the subject.
