Fagin - Antisemitic copper relief

Fagin - Antisemitic copper relief

Antisemitic copper relief in the figure of Fagin, numbered in the copper body. Europe Late 19th / early 20th century.  The frame is original as it appeared from the manufacturer. See: Anti Judischer Nippes und populare Judenbilder by Falk Wiesemann Item No. 182. A similar work appears in the Jewish Museum in Vienna Catalog Item No. VII-24 - 180 (also numbered).

The figure of FAGIN presented as a Jewish criminal and leader of a group of pickpocket children is taken from the novel 'Oliver Twist' by Charles Dickens [published in 1838], the stereotypical character appears in the book as a Jew in neglected clothing and messy hair. In the novel, FAGIN is most blatantly described as an evil villain and may be teaching children how to steal, and is often mentioned not by his first name, but by the nickname "the Jew." Although in his later years, Dickens was disturbed by the stereotypical image he created, following the sale of his house in London to the Jewish banker James David, and in later editions of the book many of the "Jewish" mentions omitted refer to the criminal FAGIN, Nevertheless, the figure was accepted throughout Europe in various forms as a typical figure for the "jewish" crook and the thief Threatening the local population.

Size (including frame): 16x16 cm. Stains. Good condition.