The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party By Sir John Tenniel 1865

Self Portrait Sir John Tenniel 1882

Sir John Tenniel stands as a monumental figure in the history of British art, renowned both for his iconic illustrations and his powerful political cartoons. His work, particularly his illustrations for Lewis Carroll's "Alice's Adventures in Wonderland" and "Through the Looking-Glass," has left an indelible mark on popular culture.

 

John Tenniel was born in Bayswater, West London, to John Baptist Tenniel, a fencing and dancing master and Eliza Maria Tenniel. Tenniel had five siblings: two brothers and three sisters. One sister, Mary, was later to marry Thomas Goodwin Green, owner of the pottery that produced Cornishware. Tenniel was a quiet and introverted person, both as a boy and as an adult. He was content to remain firmly out of the limelight and seemed unaffected by competition or change. His biographer Rodney Engen wrote that Tenniel's "life and career was that of the supreme gentlemanly outside, living on the edge of respectability.

 

This picture is part of a cycle of monumental mosaic portraits depicting famous artists, here Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519). The series of originally 35 mosaics was created between 1864 and circa 1875 for the South Court of the South Kensington Museum, the later V&A. The mosaic was based on a portrait painted by Sir John Tenniel 1868

 

Early Life and Artistic Development:

Born in London, Tenniel displayed artistic talent from a young age. He honed his skills at the Royal Academy of Arts, developing a meticulous and detailed style.  In 1840, Tenniel, while practicing fencing, received a serious eye wound from his father's foil, which had accidentally lost its protective tip. Over the years, Tenniel gradually lost sight in his right eye. He never told his father of the severity of the wound, as he did not wish to upset him further.

 

Saint Cecilia By Sir John Tenniel 1849

 

Before his famous work with Lewis Carrol, Tenniel had already begun to make a name for himself as an illustrator, and in creating art for large public works.   Tenniel's artistic journey led him to the pages of Punch, a satirical magazine where his sharp wit and masterful penmanship found a home. His political cartoons, with their biting humor and insightful commentary, became a powerful voice in Victorian England. Yet, it was his collaboration with Lewis Carroll that would solidify his place in literary immortality.

 

Illustration by Sir John Tenniel for The Raven a narrative poem by American writer Edgar Allan Poe. 1858

 

The Punch Years:

• In 1850, Tenniel joined the staff of "Punch" magazine, a leading satirical publication of the Victorian era.  

• For over 50 years, he served as "Punch's" principal political cartoonist, producing incisive and influential images that shaped public opinion.  

The Irish “Vampire”, illustration by John Tenniel from Punch magazine, 24 October 1885.

 

• His most famous political cartoon, "Dropping the Pilot," depicting the resignation of Otto von Bismarck, is a testament to his ability to capture the essence of political events.  

• His work at Punch cemented his reputation as a master of political satire, and helped to shape the way that political events were viewed by the public.  

Alice-Drink Me From Alice in Wonderland By Sir John Tenniel 1865

 

Lewis Carrol and Alice:

When Carroll sought an illustrator for his whimsical tale of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, he found the perfect partner in Tenniel. The artist's meticulous attention to detail and imaginative flair brought Carroll's fantastical world to life, creating iconic images that have captivated readers for generations.

• Tenniel's collaboration with Lewis Carroll on the "Alice" books cemented his place in literary history.

• His illustrations brought Carroll's fantastical world to life, creating enduring images of characters like the Mad Hatter, the Queen of Hearts, and the Cheshire Cat.  

• The precision and imaginative quality of his drawings perfectly complemented Carroll's whimsical and often nonsensical narrative.

• The relationship between Carroll and Tenniel was known to be at times strained, due to both men being very particular about their work. However, the end result of their collaboration is a timeless masterpiece.  

Alice and the White Queen From Alice in Wonderland By Sir John Tenniel 1865

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tenniel illustrated numerous other books, including: "Aesop's Fables", Works by Thomas Moore, Juvenile Verse and Picture Book, Undine, Blair's Grave, Shirley Brooks’ The Gordian Knot, and The Silver Cord.  

 

 

Therefore, while "Alice in Wonderland" solidified his place in popular culture, his extensive work as a political cartoonist and his illustrations for other literary works demonstrate his versatility and talent as an artist.  

Alice and the Duchess From Alice Through The Looking Glass By Sir John Tenniel  1871

John Tenniel, the man who brought Alice to life, left an indelible mark on the world of art and literature. His illustrations, a testament to his skill and imagination, continue to enchant and inspire, reminding us of the power of creativity to transport us to extraordinary realms.  Tenniel's contributions to illustration and political cartooning were widely recognized during his lifetime.  

 

Alice and Humpty Dumpty From Through The Looking Glass by Sir John Tenniel 1870

Portrait of Sir John Tenniel by Artist: Edwin Ward Date: circa 1905

Tenniel was knighted in 1893, a testament to his artistic achievements and his influence on British society.   His illustrations for the "Alice" books continue to captivate audiences of all ages, and his political cartoons remain a valuable historical record of the Victorian era.   Tenniel's ability to combine artistic skills with sharp wit and social commentary made him a truly exceptional artist.

 

Sir John Tenniel holds a significant place in art history, primarily recognized for two major areas of contribution: his iconic illustrations for Lewis Carroll's "Alice" books and his influential political cartoons for "Punch" magazine. We can all recognize Tenniels Illustrations from the Alice in Wonderland Books.

 

 

The Mad Hatter From Alice in Wonderland By Sir John Tenniel 1865

Tenniel's original illustrations and cartoons are highly valued by collectors and museums.

Museums that hold his works include:

• The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A): This museum has a significant collection of Tenniel's work, including illustrations and political cartoons.

•   The British Museum: Holds examples of his drawings and engravings.   

• The Morgan Library & Museum: holds examples of his illustrations.   

Many other museums and libraries hold examples of publications that contain his work.