The Comic Almanack: September

The Comic Almanac was published between 1835-1853 and had an illustration for each month. For September 1835 it was a scene derived from the festivities of St Bartholomew which took place every year in September. In this calendar format Cruikshank reflected contemporary street life.

In the earlier editions Cruikshank illustrated festivals and street fairs in a light hearted manner. By the 1840s the engravings had moved away from depictions of upbeat street life and occasions to scenes which showed the fragility of early Victorian existence. Figures are shown on the defensive sliding down the social scale highlighting th eprecariousness of London life.

George Cruikshank was a prolific caricature artist (1792-1878) who illustrated many books with satirical engravings.