Demobilisation by Captain Bruce Bairnsfather, WW1 cartoon
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Demobilisation by Captain Bruce Bairnsfather, WW1 cartoon
Owing to demobilisation not exactly synchronising with the taking back of the Hotel Terrific by the management, General Sir Claude Cumbersome has to deal with a lot of returns under most impossible conditions.
During the First World War, a number of smart hotels were requisitioned for military use. According to this cartoon by Bruce Bairnsfather in The Bystander, the hoteliers have moved back in with the end of the war before the military have moved out!
1919
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14171252
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Administration Amusing Bairnsfather Bruce Demobilisation Hotels Kitchen Staff
Demobilisation
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a humorous cartoon by renowned British satirical artist, Captain Bruce Bairnsfather, published in The Bystander magazine in 1919. The image captures the chaos and misalignment of the military demobilisation process following the end of World War I. In the cartoon, General Sir Claude Cumbersome stands in the middle of a bustling hotel kitchen, surrounded by returning soldiers and hotel staff. The general, dressed in full military regalia, looks exasperated as he tries to manage the situation. The hoteliers have moved back in before the military have had a chance to vacate the premises. The scene is filled with amusing details. Soldiers are seen carrying their belongings, while hotel staff are busy preparing meals and setting tables. Pots and pans are scattered about, and a sign on the wall reads "Hotel Terrific - Open for Business." The general's expression conveys his frustration and disbelief at the situation. The cartoon highlights the inconvenience and confusion that often accompanied the demobilisation process during and after the war. It also showcases Bairnsfather's unique ability to capture the absurdities and ironies of military life, making it a beloved and enduring piece of World War I history. Bairnsfather's "Old Bill" cartoons, which featured the character of a typical British Tommy soldier, were widely popular during the war and beyond. This particular cartoon, with its clever use of humor and insightful commentary on the military administration, continues to resonate with audiences today.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
