Mr. Punch in the Arts: Mr. Punch Meets Mr. Dickens

Charles Dickens is the first name many people think of when recalling Victorian England. Of course, that makes sense. Dickens was one of the most prolific writers of the era. As Punch & Judy shows were one of the major forms of entertainment available to everyone, Dickens would have encountered the fabulous Mr. Punch many a time. It only stands to reason that among Dickens’ colorful cast of characters would be some Punch & Judy men. In The Old Curiosity shop, Little Nell and her grandfather stumble across a couple of Punch & Judy men during their journey. Here, in this lovely illustration from the original printing of The Old Curiosity Shop, we see this encounter as rendered by Dickens’ long-time friend and illustrator, Daniel Maclise. Maclise also provided the illustrations for Nicholas Nickleby and several of Dickens’ Christmas-themed stories.


I love this image. It truly captures a moment in time. I think it’s grand that Mr. Punch is draped over a tombstone as the men inventory their tools. You can see Judy still in the suitcase. Mr. Punch has had a significant influence on all forms of art. Here’s hoping that he continues to do so for centuries to come.