Merchant Princes and Charlatans or Makers of Money?: Decoding Icons of Nineteenth Century British and International Finance

This book provides a critical analysis of visual images of British and international finance during the nineteenth century, focusing on the financiers themselves and the breakdown of trust between them and investors. It uses a PEARL methodology to critique the images, revealing that white-collar criminals were secretly admired in Britain, while Merchant Princes were depicted favourably.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 338 pages
Publication date: 20 December 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into a critical examination of visual representations of British and international finance during the nineteenth century. Its central focus lies in the portrayal of financiers, contrasting the respectable image of Merchant Princes with the less-than-ideal portrayal of white-collar criminals who defrauded investors of substantial sums. The breakdown of trust between financiers and investors that emerged during this period finds visual expression in depictions of the emotional reactions of investors to the uncertain financial climate.

To enhance the analysis, a PEARL methodology has been employed, encompassing a thorough examination of the images' impact, the editorial and artistic techniques employed, and the legal context, particularly in countries like France and Germany where censorship was stringent. The book concludes that white-collar criminals were secretly admired in Britain, rarely subjected to severe satire. In contrast, Merchant Princes were depicted favorably in Britain as members of the ruling elite during the latter half of the century. This contrast is evident when comparing the more extreme anti-monopolistic images in the United States to the extreme anti-Semitic treatment of Jewish financiers in France and Germany.

The book's rich content and insightful analysis provide valuable insights into the historical context and societal attitudes towards finance and crime during the nineteenth century. It sheds light on the complex relationships between financiers, investors, and the broader social and political landscape of the time. Whether one is interested in history, finance, or visual culture, this book offers a thought-provoking exploration of a significant period in economic history.

Weight: 569g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030866068
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022