Carlo Pellegrini, who was widely known by the pseudonym 'Ape', was an Italian caricaturist born on March 25, 1839, in Capua, in the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies (now in modern Italy). He was recognized for his work published in the British Vanity Fair magazine from 1869 until his death in 1889. Pellegrini was a significant figure in the development of caricature during the Victorian era and is best remembered for his satirical portraits of contemporary public figures.
Pellegrini's early life and education remain somewhat obscure, but it is known that he was of noble descent and received a classical education. He showed an early talent for art, particularly in caricature, which would become his lifelong pursuit. In his early years, he traveled to Naples and was involved in the artistic circles there, but he soon moved on to London, England, which was to become his primary residence.
Upon arriving in London in 1864, Pellegrini initially struggled to make a living as an artist. However, his fortunes changed when he was introduced to Thomas Gibson Bowles, the founder of Vanity Fair magazine. Bowles was impressed by Pellegrini's distinctive style and sharp wit, and he quickly commissioned him to produce caricatures for the magazine. Pellegrini's first caricature for Vanity Fair was of Benjamin Disraeli, published in 1869 under the pseudonym 'Ape', which Pellegrini would continue to use throughout his career.
Pellegrini quickly became a prominent figure in London society and his caricatures a staple feature of Vanity Fair. His style was characterized by its elegance and often gentle mockery, rather than the more brutal satire of some of his contemporaries. His subjects ranged from politicians and royalty to artists and actors. Over his twenty-year association with the magazine, Pellegrini produced more than 200 caricatures, which were widely appreciated for their humor and insight.
Despite his success, Pellegrini's personal life was marked by a certain eccentricity and a disregard for money. He was known for his flamboyant dress and love of high society, yet he often struggled financially due to his extravagant lifestyle and lack of financial acumen.
Carlo Pellegrini died on January 22, 1889, in London. His work left a lasting legacy on the genre of caricature, influencing the style and technique of future artists. Today, his caricatures offer a fascinating insight into the society and personalities of the Victorian era, and his contributions to the art form are still celebrated.
