The Shield and the Shadow

British imperialism as a protector of the weak and innocent.

This striking woodcut was based on a sketch by the talented Linley Sambourne and originally published in the October 18th, 1890 issue of Punch, or the London Charivari. This particular example was issued the following year in a commemorative annual volume.

The image shows an armored Britannia, looking much like Athena, protecting a helpless, dark-skinned maiden clutching at her robes. A looming shadow labeled ‘Caste’ is the approaching threat, implying Britain as the savior of those trapped within the rigid social classification system. The reality was much different, as British policies during the Raj actually helped codify many elements of the caste system, especially through caste-based laws and the organization of a national census.