At the grindstone

J. W.North

1867

Wood engraving by the Dalziels

6½ x 5 inches

Illustration for Wayside Posies, p.5.

This illustration provides a typically subversive response to its poem. The verse celebrates patriotism, fighting for England; but the illustration shows rural decay, so questioning the justifications for fighting and the condition of those who have done their patriotic duty.

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Scanned image and text by Simon Cooke

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