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A Recess on a London Bridge, 1879 (oil on canvas)
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A Recess on a London Bridge, 1879 (oil on canvas)
TW427056 A Recess on a London Bridge, 1879 (oil on canvas) by Mulready, Augustus Edward (1844-c.1905); 43.6x53.5 cm; Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK; (add.info.: This poor Victorian child is living on the streets. His bed is one of the recesses on London Bridge. In order to appeal to middle-class picture buyers, the artist has glossed over some aspects of his subject. Although the boy has bare feet and torn clothes, his hair and skin are clean. The child is asleep, emphasising his innocence and vulnerability; ); eTyne & Wear Archives & Museums; English, out of copyright
Media ID 23476842
© Tyne & Wear Archives & Museums / Bridgeman Images
Asleep Barefoot Beggar Hardship Orphan Stars
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A Recess on a London Bridge, 1879
EDITORS COMMENTS
captures the poignant reality of a poor Victorian child living on the unforgiving streets. Painted by Augustus Edward Mulready, this oil on canvas print portrays a young boy finding solace in one of the recesses on London Bridge. Despite his destitution, the artist has chosen to highlight certain aspects while glossing over others to appeal to middle-class picture buyers. The child's bare feet and torn clothes are evident signs of his impoverished state. However, Mulready presents him with clean hair and skin, perhaps symbolizing an innate innocence that remains untouched by his harsh surroundings. The boy is depicted peacefully asleep, emphasizing both his vulnerability and the respite he finds in slumber. This painting serves as a powerful reminder of the hardships faced by orphaned children and beggars during this era. It evokes empathy for those who were forced into such dire circumstances through no fault of their own. The presence of stars overhead suggests that even amidst darkness and despair, there is still hope shining down upon them. Displayed at the Laing Art Gallery in Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK, this artwork invites viewers to reflect upon societal inequalities and compels us to take action against poverty even today. "A Recess on a London Bridge" stands as both an artistic masterpiece and a social commentary that continues to resonate with audiences across generations.
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