The Great Exhibition "Wot is to Be", Probable Results of The Industry of All Nations in The Year '51, Showing What is to be Exhibited, Who is To Exhibit, in Short How Its All Going to Be Done 1850

George Augustus Sala made this satirical lithograph in anticipation of the Great Exhibition of 1851. It presents a mocking view of what Ireland might contribute to this global showcase of industry and culture. In the mid-19th century, Ireland was recovering from the Great Famine, a period marked by mass starvation and emigration. Sala’s caricature reflects the prevailing stereotypes and prejudices held by the English towards the Irish, portraying them as unsophisticated, impoverished, and overly attached to outdated traditions. This piece is divided into sections, each lampooning different aspects of Irish society, from its supposed artistic endeavors to its agricultural practices. The figures are exaggerated, almost grotesque, emphasizing a sense of otherness and ridicule. The inclusion of text further reinforces these stereotypes, reducing complex socio-economic issues to simple, demeaning labels. This work is a pointed commentary on the power dynamics between England and Ireland, revealing the deep-seated biases that shaped perceptions of Irish identity during the Victorian era. It serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of prejudice and the importance of challenging dominant narratives.