Artwork
The Pas De Deux!
The Pas De Deux! is a drawing by the Impressionist artist John Tenniel. It dates from 1878 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
The Pas De Deux! is a drawing created by John Tenniel in 1878, published in Punch magazine. It is a satirical illustration that uses a ballet theme to comment on contemporary politics.
Subject & Meaning
The drawing depicts British Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli and Foreign Secretary Robert Cecil, 3rd Marquess of Salisbury, in a wrestling pose, dressed in elaborate, old-fashioned costumes. The image references the Congress of Berlin, where they negotiated terms restricting Russia while advancing British interests.
Technique & Style
The sketch features intricate line work and patterns, with the artists' use of lines creating texture and shading. The visual style is playful, with a focus on capturing the dynamic pose of the two figures.
History & Provenance
The drawing was published in Punch on August 3, 1878. It later passed through the hands of M. H. Spielmann before being sold at Christie's in February 1970.
Artist & collection
Artist
John Tenniel drew like he was arguing with his own pencil—always precise, sometimes dry, never flashy.
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