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Balfours Irrepressible Donkey, 1888. Artist: Joseph Swain
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Balfours Irrepressible Donkey, 1888. Artist: Joseph Swain
Balfours Irrepressible Donkey, 1888. Arthur James Balfour was the Chief Secretary for Ireland at the beginning of 1888 in Lord Salisburys Conservative administration.The cartoon is accompanied by a poem of the same name in which Punch makes the point that the Irrepressible Donkey, Ireland, has foiled many an able politician from all parties over the years. Balfour is trying to bribe the Donkey with the carrots labelled Reduced Rents. In fact Balfour, having rejected the chance to use the Coercion Acts to control crime in Ireland, put his faith in continuing the expansion of land purchase schemes and other aspects of agrarian reform. From Punch, or the London Charivari, January 14, 1888
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Media ID 14832045
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1st Earl Of Balfour Arthur Balfour Arthur James Arthur James Balfour Arthur James Earl Balfour Bribery Chief Secretary For Ireland Conservative Conservative Party Donkey Earl Balfour Heritage Image Partnership Ireland Irish John Tenniel Joseph Swain Member Of Parliament Sir John Tenniel Swain Tenniel Metaphor
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print, titled "Balfours Irrepressible Donkey" captures a moment of political satire from the 19th century. Created by Joseph Swain in 1888, it features Arthur James Balfour, the Chief Secretary for Ireland at the time, attempting to bribe an irrepressible donkey with carrots labeled "Reduced Rents". The cartoon serves as a metaphor for the challenges faced by politicians in dealing with Ireland's complex issues. In this caricature, Punch magazine highlights how Ireland has consistently outwitted politicians from all parties throughout history. Balfour, representing Lord Salisbury's Conservative administration, rejected using Coercion Acts to control crime in Ireland and instead focused on land purchase schemes and agrarian reform. However, his attempts to entice the stubborn donkey with promises of reduced rents are met with skepticism. The image symbolizes bribery and politics intertwined as Balfour dangles a carrot before the donkey. It reflects both the frustration felt by politicians trying to navigate Irish affairs and their reliance on persuasive tactics that often fall short. With its intricate engraving style and monochrome composition, this print showcases Swain's artistic talent while capturing an important moment in British political history. It serves as a reminder of how cartoons can convey powerful messages through humor and satire.
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