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1836 Caricature of abesent minded prof
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1836 Caricature of abesent minded prof
From " The Anniversary of the Literary Fun 1836" by Thomas Hood, published by Baily and Co, Cornhill. The reputation of academics for absent-mindedness, eccentricity, and absorption in their books, goes back a long way. The theme of the home menagerie may have developed due to the exploits of eccentric naturalists such a geologist William Buckland who was famous for his Christs College home menagerie (which at one point included a free range bear called Tiglath Pileser)
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6345043
© This image is Paul D. Stewart 2009. Do not reproduce without permission of the photographer at Stewartpauld@aol.com
Absorbed Academic Black And White Buckland Caricature Cartoon Eccentric Georgian Professor Victorian Menagerie Mono Chrome
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print takes us back to the year 1836, offering a glimpse into the world of academia through the lens of satire. The caricature depicts an absent-minded professor, a figure whose reputation for eccentricity and immersion in books has endured throughout history. The origins of this peculiar archetype can be traced back to renowned naturalists like William Buckland, who famously kept a menagerie at his Christs College residence. This home zoo became a symbol of scholarly absorption and quirkiness, inspiring many similar depictions over time. In this artwork by Paul D. Stewart, we witness the essence of an academic lost in thought amidst stacks of books and papers. His disheveled appearance hints at his preoccupation with intellectual pursuits rather than mundane matters such as personal grooming or fashion. The monochrome palette adds depth to the illustration, emphasizing both its historical context and artistic finesse. As we observe this cartoonish portrayal, we are reminded that even those dedicated to knowledge can sometimes become so absorbed in their studies that they lose touch with reality. This print serves as a testament to the enduring image of absent-minded professors throughout Georgian and Victorian eras – individuals who were simultaneously revered for their intellect yet laughed at for their idiosyncrasies. It captures an era when academics were seen as enigmatic figures wandering between worlds - one foot firmly planted in scholarship while occasionally venturing into whimsical territories only they could comprehend fully.
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