September 27, 1792 in the family of British illustrator and cartoonist Isaac Cruikshank (1756–1811) son George Cruikshank (1792–1878) was born. The young man followed in the footsteps of his father and eventually surpassed him in fame. During his long life, he illustrated about 850 books, depicting in his works the political life of England and Europe in the first half of the 19th century.
English political satire of the late 18th — early 19th centuries paid great attention to France and Napoleon. The elder Cruikshank created a huge number of cartoons dedicated to the French emperor, and after his death, his son consciously or unconsciously had to continue this business. George Cruikshank left many drawings about the events of 1812-1815 — about the Russian campaign of Napoleon, his defeats in Europe, exile on the Elba and the famous 100 days. It is these cartoons that are included in today's material.
Interestingly, Cruikshank often used Russian caricatures, leaving signatures in the original language when redrawing.
Dignitaries arriving in Warsaw, with faces covered with snow instead of glory (February 1813). Satire on Napoleon's retreat from Russia
Emergency delivery from Moscow to Paris (March 1813). Satire on Napoleon's retreat from Russia
Inspection of French troops on the way back from Smolensk (May 1813)
Russians teaching Boney to dance (May 1813). Satire on Napoleon's Russian campaign
French generals Retreating (May 1813). Satire on Napoleon's retreat from Russia
Bleeding and warm water! Or the Allied Doctors bringing Boney to his Sense's (December 1813)
The head of the Great Nation in a queer situation! (December 1813). Napoleon facing the coalition
The Corsican shuttlecock, or a pretty play thing for allies (April 1814). Satire on Napoleon's defeat and abdication in 1814: Austrian commander Schwarzenberg and Prussian commander Blucher play badminton
Whirligig game (April 1814). Satire on the defeat and abdication of Napoleon in 1814
The Elbaronian Emperor going to take possession of his new Territory (April 1814). Satire on the exile of Napoleon to Elba
Old Blucher beating the Corsican Big Drum (April 1814)
A singular Trait of Bounapartes favorite Mameluke (May 1814). Mameluke gives a saber and hints at suicide to Napoleon, who recoiled in horror
A game at cribbage, or Boney's last shuffle (June 1814). Satire on the expulsion of Napoleon to Elba — Napoleon and King George III of England at the card table
Escape of Buonaparte from Elba
The Corsicans last Trip under the Guidance of his good angel (April 1815). The devil pushes Napoleon to the French throne
Return of the Paris Dilligence, or Boney rode over (September 1815). Satire on the restoration of the Bourbons
