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Only His Play, 1885. Artist: Joseph Swain
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Only His Play, 1885. Artist: Joseph Swain
Only His Play, 1885. The British Lion and the Indian Tiger watch in consternation as the Russian Bear attacks the Afghan wolves. On 30th March 1885, Russia had attacked the Afghans at Penjdeh, leading to an Afghan loss of 500 men. Each side blamed the other for causing the conflict. Recently, Russia and Britain had agreed that Russia would not advance on Penjdeh and that Britain would not support any advance by Afghan troops. However, the next day, Russia qualified its agreement by the addition of a proviso that Afghanistan should not advance, attack or cause any disturbance in Penjdeh. It was feared at the time that this would open the door for Russia to gain the advantage. From Punch, or the London Charivari, April 18, 1885
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Media ID 14831905
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Afghan Afghani Afghanistan Agreement Alliance Attack Attacking Bear Feline Foreign Affairs Foreign Policy Heritage Image Partnership John Tenniel Joseph Swain Russian Bear Sir John Tenniel Swain Tenniel Tiger Wolf Allegorical Figure Hindoostan Indian Tiger
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print titled "Only His Play, 1885" by Joseph Swain captures a significant moment in history. The image portrays the British Lion and the Indian Tiger anxiously observing as the Russian Bear launches an attack on the Afghan wolves. This scene symbolizes the tense political climate of that time. In March 1885, Russia's aggressive assault on Penjdeh resulted in a devastating loss of 500 Afghan lives. Both sides blamed each other for instigating this conflict. Prior to this incident, Russia and Britain had reached an agreement that prohibited any advancement by either party in Penjdeh. However, Russia later added a proviso stating that Afghanistan should not cause any disturbance or engage in aggression there. The addition of this proviso raised concerns among many who feared it would give Russia an advantage over Afghanistan. This cartoon from Punch, or the London Charivari published on April 18th, 1885 reflects these anxieties through its allegorical figures. Joseph Swain's engraving skillfully depicts this complex political situation with monochrome precision. It serves as a powerful commentary on foreign affairs and alliances during the late 19th century. Through this heritage image partnership between John Tenniel and Joseph Swain, we are offered a glimpse into history - reminding us of the intricate web of international politics and their consequences for nations involved.
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