Home > Arts > Artists > J > John Johnson
Humble Pie (?), 1869. Artist: John Tenniel
![View Heritage Images Prints Heritage Images](/templates/printstore/3061/images/logo_60x60.gif)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Humble Pie (?), 1869. Artist: John Tenniel
Humble Pie (?), 1869. After the American Civil War, the US government claimed compensation was due from Britain in respect of the damage done by the Alabama, a ship fitted out in Britain to raid the commerce of the United States. The row had rumbled on for some time and, in November 1868, a Convention had been signed allowing commissioners to be appointed to adjudicate. This cartoon shows Mr Reverdy Johnson, the recently appointed US Minister to Britain, being presented with a pie depicting the amount of damages being claimed. Johnson is to offer the pie to John Bull. In April 1869, the US Senate had rejected by a majority of some 54 to 1 the proposed Treaty. One Senator, Mr Sumner, said that Britain had dealt the US such a blow that it was difficult to quantify. This matter was still rumbling on into the 1870s. From Punch, or the London Charivari, May 15, 1869
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14831202
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Goatee Heritage Image Partnership John Bull John Tenniel Johnson Minister Offering Sir John Tenniel Tenniel Top Hat Allegorical Figure American Civil War Reverdy Tea Towel
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> J
> John Johnson
> Arts
> Artists
> Related Images
> Arts
> Artists
> T
> John Tenniel
> Arts
> Artists
> W
> John White
> Arts
> Minimalist artwork
> Monochrome artwork
> Fine art
> Arts
> Minimalist artwork
> Monochrome artwork
> Monochrome paintings
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Politics
> Related Images
> North America
> United States of America
> Alabama
> Related Images
> People
> Politicians
EDITORS COMMENTS
This engraving captures a significant moment in the political history of the United States and Britain. Created by renowned artist John Tenniel in 1869, the print titled "Humble Pie (?)" depicts Mr Reverdy Johnson, the newly appointed US Minister to Britain, being presented with a pie symbolizing the compensation claimed by the US government from Britain. The dispute arose after the American Civil War when it was alleged that Britain had supported a ship called Alabama, which caused damage to American commerce. The cartoon humorously portrays Johnson offering this symbolic pie to John Bull, representing Britain. The image reflects the ongoing tension between these two nations during that time. Interestingly, despite efforts made through diplomatic channels such as signing a Convention for adjudication in November 1868, progress towards resolving this matter was slow. In April 1869, the proposed Treaty seeking compensation was rejected by an overwhelming majority in the US Senate. This illustration showcases Tenniel's talent for caricature and satire while shedding light on an important historical event. It serves as a reminder of how conflicts between nations can be expressed through art and symbolism. As we observe Johnson presenting his claim through this whimsical gesture of offering humble pie, it is evident that tensions lingered well into subsequent years regarding this issue between America and Britain.
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.