Sky-Signs in the Country (As Seen by our Artist in Search of the Picturesque)

Victorian-era commentary on man’s encroachment on natural beauty.

This amusing scene laments the loss of Britain’s natural beauty, as the picturesque hills and marvelous forests formerly available in the countryside were gradually being replaced by large summer estates. Offering the best views was critical, resulting in much deforestation and earthmoving. Two artists, lower right, stare on in disbelief, while an author? nearby turns away his face in disgust.

Based on a drawing by the talented illustrator Harry Furniss, the print was originally published in the October 4, 1890 edition of Punch, or the London Charivari. This particular example was likely issued the following year, as part of a published volume.