1864

Grand Transformation Scene
for the End of the Year 1864. Punch, Volume 47, December 31, 1864, p. 269

In a cartoon appearing on New Year's Eve in 1864, Tenniel again presents a holiday season Pantomime performance, a theme he had first used three years earlier [January 4, 1862]. The climactic scene of the "Panto" was typically heralded by the appearance of the lithe, athletic Harlequin. After dancing with his partner, the delicate and graceful Columbine, Harlequin would magically set in motion a "grand transformation" involving the entire company. This spectacular sequence involved a variety of special effects, including the appearance of characters through trap doors in the stage floor. Often these "transformations" would be given a topical flavor, with references to current events and popular figures of the day.

As the old year descends slowly out of sight on stage right (audience left), the newly re-elected Lincoln makes a reprise appearance as the crotchety Pantalone, staring apprehensively into an opening trap door through which the events of the coming year are about to be revealed. In the background, perhaps on a painted scrim, Mister Punch presides over the scene, attired in a clown's costume and holding a jester's folly-stick. The radiant Britannia, armed yet peaceable, stands at his side, surrounded by clouds and a circle of stars. In contrast to America's troubled future, Great Britain appears to welcome the New Year in a spirit of confidence and security.