Phil May (caricaturist)

Phil May (1851-1903) was an English caricaturist, illustrator, and comic artist, renowned for his economical style and social commentary. Born in Wortley, Leeds, May began his artistic career at a young age, contributing to local publications. He developed a distinctive style characterized by bold lines, minimal shading, and a focus on capturing the essence of his subjects with a few strokes.

May's career took off after he moved to London and worked for various illustrated newspapers and magazines, including The St. Stephen's Review, Punch, and The Graphic. He also spent time in Australia, contributing to The Sydney Bulletin and honing his skills in depicting diverse subjects.

His caricatures often portrayed working-class life in London, capturing the humor and hardships of everyday people. He was known for his sympathetic and insightful portrayals, avoiding overly cruel or exaggerated depictions. May's work was influential on subsequent generations of cartoonists and illustrators, and he remains a significant figure in the history of British comic art.

May's output included numerous individual cartoons, illustrations for books, and contributions to illustrated periodicals. His ability to convey character and narrative with minimal detail made him a popular and respected artist during his lifetime.