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Bystanders watch as John Gilpin is chased across the countryside, 1878, (c1918). Creator
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Bystanders watch as John Gilpin is chased across the countryside, 1878, (c1918). Creator
Bystanders watch as John Gilpin is chased across the countryside, 1878, (c1918). Riders set off in pursuit of Gilpin, wrongly assuming that as he is being chased by the postboy, he must be a highwayman. John Gilpin was the subject of a comic ballad of 1782 by William Cowper entitled " The Diverting History of John Gilpin". The ballad, based on real-life character, describes how, on a journey to Edmonton (north in London), Gilpin, a draper, became separated from his wife and children after losing control of his horse, and ended up in the town of Ware, ten miles away from his intended destination. From " The Diverting History of John Gilpin", by William Cowper. [Frederick Warne and Co. London & New York, c1918]
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Media ID 18324952
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
Alarmed Bystander Bystanders Caldecott Chasing Cowper Galloping John Gilpin Out Of Control Panic Randolph Randolph Caldecott William Cowper Metaphor
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this photo print, taken in 1878 but reproduced in the early 20th century, we witness a scene of both amusement and alarm. Bystanders gather on the countryside as they watch John Gilpin being chased by a group of riders. The riders mistakenly assume that Gilpin must be a highwayman since he is being pursued by the postboy. This intriguing image is inspired by "The Diverting History of John Gilpin" a comic ballad penned by William Cowper in 1782. The ballad recounts the true story of Gilpin, a draper who embarks on a journey to Edmonton but loses control of his horse along the way. As fate would have it, he finds himself separated from his wife and children and ends up ten miles away from his intended destination in Ware. The photograph captures the essence of eighteenth-century England with its picturesque countryside setting and traditional British attire worn by both men and horses alike. It conveys not only the physical pursuit taking place but also metaphorically represents moments when life spirals out of control, causing panic among individuals. With its monochrome aesthetic, this print exudes nostalgia while inviting viewers to reflect on themes such as humor, human nature, and unexpected twists that can occur during life's journeys. This remarkable piece was created by Randolph Caldecott for Frederick Warne & Co. , London & New York around 1918 - an artistic tribute to Cowper's timeless tale that continues to captivate audiences across generations.
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