Some Damn Fool's Signed the Rubens Again

The artist Norman Thelwell (1923–2004) was famous for his horse and pony cartoons, but his work was far more wide-ranging. "Some Damn Fools Signed the Rubens Again" is a look at life in Britain's stately homes and what happens when they are opened to the public. Thelwell's cartoons capture the comic situations that result when the noble residents come face to face with the curious visitors.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 14 February 2024
Publisher: Quiller Publishing Ltd

Norman Thelwell (1923–2004) was a renowned artist known for his captivating horse and pony cartoons, but his artistic prowess extended far beyond that. With his exceptional talent and infectious humor, he delved into a wide range of subjects, offering witty and astute observations that brought both amusement and thought-provoking social commentary. One of his notable works, titled "Some Damn Fools Signed the Rubens Again," takes a satirical look at life within the stately homes of Britain. Through his inimitable style, Thelwell portrays the castles, country estates, and quirks of the British class system, capturing the essence of these grand residences in his unique manner.

In this work, Thelwell explores the consequences when ancestral homes begin to crumble or aristocratic families find themselves burdened by debt. The solution, he suggests, is to open these homes to the paying public, thereby bringing in much-needed revenue. However, this decision leads to a series of comic situations as the noble residents come face-to-face with the curious visitors who flock to these historic places.

Thelwell's cartoons are a testament to his sharp wit and ability to capture the essence of human behavior. From the duke in his tower preparing to repel coachloads of visitors with boiling oil to a ghost train lurking in the family vault, to toddlers wreaking havoc on treasured heirlooms, and animals in the safari park watching the hilarious human spectacle unfold, Thelwell's cartoons offer a glimpse into the absurdities and quirks of life in these grand homes.

Through his work, Thelwell not only entertained but also shed light on the social and cultural dynamics of the British class system. His cartoons served as a commentary on the disparities between the haves and have-nots, the quirks of aristocratic lifestyles, and the challenges faced by those who inhabit these historic homes.

Norman Thelwell's legacy as an artist continues to inspire and amuse audiences, with his witty and astute observations providing a timeless reflection on the human condition. His cartoons remain a testament to his exceptional talent and the enduring power of humor to bring joy and insight to our lives.

Weight: 306g
Dimension: 164 x 234 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781846893995