 Punch Blue
ABCs Giftwrap
Although originally conceived as a less satirical version of the French
paper Charivari, Britain’s Punch — first
published in July 1841— soon
became the definitive, acerbic bell weather for the Victorian Era. Once a
success, Punch remained so until its final edition in 1992 by publishing
articles and cartoons that cunningly called into question prevailing social
mores and the Establishment as a whole.
Illustrated by the likes of Leech, Keene, du Maurier, Bennett and Tenniel,
the artful presentation of satire in Punch was enhanced by the beautifully
crafted lettering for which the publication has become known to typophiles
throughout the world.
Although caricatures of public and political figures were frequently woven
into fanciful initials, lettering in Punch also reflected Britain’s
enthusiastic interest in topics ranging from the military to fashion, from sports
to the animal world.
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