An Alien in Wexford: Harry Furniss, Punch, and Zozimus (The ‘Irish Punch’)

Abstract

Born in Ireland, Harry Furniss (1854–1925) was one of the most prolific satirists of the nineteenth century, best known for producing over two thousand illustrations for Punch. Although Furniss frequently sought to distinguish himself from his Irish origins, they proved a constant source of inspiration for his satirical productions in print (and later on stage), as he capitalized on a shifting position as both ‘insider’ and ‘outsider’ to Irish politics and society. This article explores Furniss’ formative years working for Zozimus, a short-lived (and mostly forgotten) illustrated periodical known as ‘The Irish Punch’, revealing both the publication’s domestic significance, and the influence of Irish affairs on Furniss’ long career.