Fraud Blocker Skip to main content

Home > Arts > Artists > T > John Tenniel

The Red-Tape Tangle, 1888. Artist: Joseph Swain

The Red-Tape Tangle, 1888. Artist: Joseph Swain


Photo Prints
Jigsaw Puzzles
Poster Prints
Canvas Prints
Fine Art Prints
Metal Prints
Home Decor


We accept all major credit cards

Heritage Images

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images

The Red-Tape Tangle, 1888. Artist: Joseph Swain

The Red-Tape Tangle, 1888. The Great British Lion roars out his distress, tied down as he is by red tape and officialdom. There were many complaints at the time that the increasing amount of red tape was preventing progress, both on a national and local level. From Punch, or the London Charivari, June 16, 1888

Heritage Images features heritage image collections

Media ID 14832077

© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images

British Lion Distressed Government Heritage Image Partnership John Tenniel Joseph Swain Lion Officialdom Restricted Sir John Tenniel Swain Tangled Tenniel Tied Tied Up Trapped Allegorical Figure Metaphor Roar Roaring


FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Arts > Artists > J > John June

> Arts > Artists > T > John Tenniel

> Arts > Artists > W > John White

> Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Politics > Related Images

> Popular Themes > Politics


The Red-Tape Tangle, 1888

EDITORS COMMENTS
is a powerful visual representation of the frustrations and limitations caused by excessive bureaucracy in late 19th-century Britain. Created by renowned artists Joseph Swain and John Tenniel, this monochrome engraving captures the essence of political distress through an allegorical figure: the Great British Lion. In this thought-provoking image, the majestic lion finds itself tied down and restricted by red tape, symbolizing the overwhelming presence of officialdom and government regulations. The lion's roar echoes its deep frustration as it struggles to break free from its entanglement. This clever metaphor reflects widespread complaints at that time about how excessive red tape hindered progress on both national and local levels. The intricate details within this caricature showcase Swain's artistic prowess while highlighting his satirical approach towards societal issues. Through his skilled use of black and white tones, he emphasizes the tangled mess created by bureaucratic restrictions. "The Red-Tape Tangle" serves as a poignant reminder of historical challenges faced during an era when innovation was stifled due to cumbersome administrative processes. As we reflect upon this heritage image partnership between Swain and Tenniel, we are reminded that even in our modern world, it is crucial to strike a balance between necessary regulations and fostering progress for the betterment of society.

MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee

FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools

SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you

* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.



redeem
Beautiful Photo Prints and Gifts
image
Professionally Printed
inventory
Photo Prints are in stock
thumb_up
Professional quality finish
diamond
Made with high-grade materials
inventory_2
Carefully packed to aid safe arrival



Related Images


Crossing the Forthbridge
Crossing the Forthbridge
_TUW7258
_TUW7258
Thomas Vermaelen in Action: Arsenal vs Stoke City, Premier League 2012-13
Thomas Vermaelen in Action: Arsenal vs Stoke City, Premier League 2012-13
Alvaro Morata's Hat-Trick: Chelsea's Dominant 4-0 Win over Stoke City
Alvaro Morata's Hat-Trick: Chelsea's Dominant 4-0 Win over Stoke City
Angelo Bergamonti (Aermacchi) 1969 Junior TT
Angelo Bergamonti (Aermacchi) 1969 Junior TT
Man smoking a pipe, early 17th century
Man smoking a pipe, early 17th century
Scene from Shakespeares King Lear, c1858. Artist: Robert Dudley
Scene from Shakespeares King Lear, c1858. Artist: Robert Dudley
Reliefs of Rameses II with various gods, Temple of Rameses II, Luxor, Egypt, c1250 BC
Reliefs of Rameses II with various gods, Temple of Rameses II, Luxor, Egypt, c1250 BC
Madonna with child and two donors, 1460. Artist: Bellini, Gentile (ca. 1429-1507)
Madonna with child and two donors, 1460. Artist: Bellini, Gentile (ca. 1429-1507)
Braganza House, the Bishops Palace, Carlow, Ireland, 1924-1926. Artist: Valentine & Sons
Braganza House, the Bishops Palace, Carlow, Ireland, 1924-1926. Artist: Valentine & Sons
CM25 2831 Max Zschuppe, Audi R8 LMS GT4
CM25 2831 Max Zschuppe, Audi R8 LMS GT4
CM29 4857 Federico Buratti, Abarth Simca 2000 GT
CM29 4857 Federico Buratti, Abarth Simca 2000 GT

+

Shipping

+

Choices

+

Reviews

+

Guaranteed




Related Collections


Politics
Politics
Browse 39,914 Prints
John June
John June
Browse 3,418 Prints
John Tenniel
John Tenniel
Browse 1,334 Prints
John White
John White
Browse 22,871 Prints
Politics Related Images
Politics Related Images
Browse 6,097 Prints