"Nincompoopiana" 1880

Curator: This is "Nincompoopiana", a political cartoon by George du Maurier, published in Punch Magazine in 1880. Editor: My first impression? What a snapshot of Victorian high society—or at least, its satirical representation. So much self-importance seems to drip from this piece. Curator: Absolutely. Du Maurier was a keen observer of the Aesthetic movement. He uses this image to critique the pretentiousness and mutual admiration that he saw within artistic circles. Editor: The exaggerated poses, the verbose captions—it all seems designed to expose the absurdity of chasing after beauty for beauty's sake, devoid of social responsibility. Curator: It's a commentary on class, too. Notice how the artist highlights the exclusivity of these gatherings, mocking those who pursue artistic validation over more substantial social contributions. Editor: Yes, the figures almost seem grotesque in their self-absorption. It's a powerful critique of a certain kind of cultural elite. I wonder what he would make of modern influencers. Curator: A fascinating question, indeed. Du Maurier’s work reminds us of the ever-present need to examine the social function of art and the responsibility of its creators.