By Claire Reifschneider
The English artist George Cruikshank was known for his caricatures and political cartoons. He was apprenticed by his father who was a renowned caricature artist in the 1790s. George Cruikshank’s career had started during his teenage years, having completed over 60 etchings before the year 1810. The Cruikshank family opened a printmaking business which had a big influence on George’s interests and cultivated his talent. After his father’s death, George took over the family print making business which began the wide distribution of his work. His work became known for being featured in topical news and literature, including children’s books and satirical articles. His scathingly critical caricature depictions of political and royal leaders were well known, and he was revered by the public for his highly opinionated media. He began his major book illustrations in 1820, in which he was able to flex his skills in both humorous and more affable art styles. The concept of light and fun illustrations for children’s books was a relatively new concept that Cruikshank is largely credited for introducing. Later in life, Cruikshank joined the Temperance movement and published several works explaining the dangers of alcohol consumption.
George Cruikshank, The Fairy Library (London: G. Bell, 188-?) Tulane University Special Collections (Besthoff Collection) PR4519.C4 C46