Bien Venu Qui Apporte

Edward Linley Sambourne was a cartoonist for Punch. In this cartoon, Venus, bearing the inscription ‘Cyprus’ on her back, and standing in front of a cave containing classical artifacts, is welcoming Sir Garnet Wolsely, the first British High Commissioner to Cyprus (July 1878). She is draped in the British flag to signify Cyprus’ acquisition by Britain. Sir Garnet, who carries a bouquet of flowers, is paying his respect to the classical figure of Venus who gives him a rather condescending look. The inscription that follows the cartoon is quite indicative of the implications involved in the act. The reference to Venus’ Paphian shrine whose gems shine no more alludes to the demise of Cyprus’ classical past. A hope is expressed in the new master renewing the sparkle of the gems. This embodies the British perception of colonial rule in Cyprus as an agency for restoring the splendour of a glorious past rather than civilizing the locals [Herzfeld]. Yet, in a swipe, Venus castigates the British might through a reference to the ‘swag’, implicating skepticism towards the new master. Being ‘draped’ in the British flag comes as a sarcastic commentary to a seemingly loyal possession which remains skeptical of the master’s intentions. This very skepticism is clearly manifested in the title of the cartoon. In addition to the welcome, the title also embodies concern about what might follow.