Thomas McLEAN

New Principles, or the March of Invention

15 x 10 inches

This wonderfully evocative cartoon depicts the clash of old and new technology upon the open road. The London and Windsor stage coach representing the old form of transport is illustrated alongside a "motorised" version that has just exploded to spectacular effect sending its occupants hurtling into the air. The blast causes consternation amongst the onlookers and causes them to comment: "Well they will have their hobbies" and "Blown up by Gad and not one soul left behind" Steam engines and coal fired carriages were a recent arrival in England and were met with much resistance and scepticism. This charming cartoon illustrates the dangers inherent in embracing the new technology!