Authentic 1905 Framed Vanity Fair Spy Print – “The Master General” | Antique Color Lithograph

For the history buff … an original 1905 Vanity Fair Spy print (color lithograph), elegantly presented under glass with French matting and an stylish 15-3/4 x 22-1/2-inch gold-painted frame.  Titled "The Master General,” this distinguished caricature portrays Sir James Wolfe Murray (1853 – 1919), a British army officer and strategist who played pivotal roles during the Boer War and World War I.  With its subtle tones and refined presentation, this piece would lend a touch of history and sophistication to a gentleman’s office or study.

Spy prints were full-page color lithographs and a prominent feature of the British magazine Vanity Fair, published from 1868 to 1914.  Each issue typically included a caricature of a well-known personality, such as artists, athletes, royalty, and politicians.  The caricatures were created by various artists, often working under pseudonyms, notably "Spy" (Sir Leslie Ward, 1851-1922), who was responsible for over half of the 2,300 published images.  Spy prints have become highly collectible and provide a valuable pictorial record of notable public figures from the Victorian and Edwardian eras.

Wolfe Murray was a British Army officer and Chief of the Imperial General Staff (1914–1915), overseeing strategy in the early days of the Great War.  Though criticized for caution, his career shaped British military leadership. 

This is one of two spy prints currently in the shop with matching frames (the other titled “Brown.”)

Dimensions: 15-3/4 x 22-1/2 x 3/4
Weight: 3 lbs. 15 oz.

Condition Notes:  Overall, in remarkable condition for its age.  Paper is free of blemishes with no foxing (brown spots) evident on the print or matting.  Modern gold painted frame also in excellent condition.  See photos for more detail and feel free to contact the shop with any questions before purchase.  Please be aware when buying art that colors in photos may vary according to device settings and lighting conditions, and as such, may differ slightly from the actual artwork.  

We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15.  Items over $100 ship free via USPS Priority Mail.  Note: due to size, this item is not gift-boxed.  We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.