The Prussian Disturber of the Peace

Wood engraving

Punch, 10 January 1857, facing page 14 (on an unnumbered page).

Mr. Punch tells the naughty boy wearing the crown of Prussia: "Now you Sir! Can't you let the poor Bird alone?" engraving

Punch (3 January 1857): 11

The winter background with markedly leafless trees is appropriate to the date of issue. The Dove of Peace, olive branch in her beak, is in the tree, upper left, and Mr. Punch is dressed as the village beadle. Are those shooting blinds in front of the tall rushes in the background, and is somebody shooting from the forward structure?

Scanned image and text by Philip V. Allingham

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