The artwork titled “Statesman No.038° – Caricature of Archibald Campbell Tait, Archbishop of Canterbury” is a creation by the artist James Tissot, dating back to the year 1869. It is crafted within the Realism art movement, and classified within the caricature genre. This piece forms part of Tissot’s “Statesman (Caricatures)” series, further encapsulating his artistic exploration of political figures. This particular work was originally published in the magazine “Vanity Fair” on December 25, 1869.
The artwork presents a full-length caricature of Archibald Campbell Tait, positioned against a neutral background which emphasizes his figure. Tait is depicted in a stylized manner characteristic of caricature, with exaggerated facial features and a serious expression that provides a glimpse into his personality or public perception. His attire is formal and clerical, reflecting his high ecclesiastical office, and is rendered in muted colors that contribute to the sober effect of the portrait. Despite the comedic undertone often inherent in caricatures, this artwork holds a certain gravitas, representing Tait as a figure of significance and respect within his societal role. The caption beneath the caricature labels him as “an earnest and liberal primate,” suggesting qualities that the artist or the magazine’s editors attributed to him.
