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Forcing the Murphies, by W. Heath Robinson
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Forcing the Murphies, by W. Heath Robinson
Forcing the Murphies Endeavouring to open the eyes of seed potatoes before sowing A cartoon by William Heath Robinson in The Bystander Date: 1918
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Media ID 14171770
© Courtesy of the estate of Mrs J.C.Robinson/Pollinger Ltd/ILN/Mary Evans Picture Library
Bystander Eyes Forcing Heath Potatoes Robinson Seed
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Forcing the Murphies
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is a delightful and whimsical cartoon by the renowned British illustrator, W. Heath Robinson, published in The Bystander magazine in 1918. This charming print captures the essence of the agricultural season as the artist humorously depicts the traditional practice of "forcing" seed potatoes. The cartoon showcases a group of anthropomorphic seed potatoes, referred to as the "Murphies," gathered around a table, each one attempting to open its own eye with various comical contraptions. The scene is filled with an air of determination and anticipation as the Murphies, with their human-like expressions, strive to meet the requirements of the farming community for "eyed" potatoes. Heath Robinson's artistic brilliance is evident in the intricate details of the tools and machinery the Murphies employ. From a potato-peeling machine with a long, curved blade to a contraption that resembles a giant pair of tweezers, the artist's imagination knows no bounds. The background is adorned with an array of farming tools and equipment, further emphasizing the agricultural theme. The historical significance of this cartoon lies in its representation of a traditional farming practice that was once common in the United Kingdom. Forcing seed potatoes involved encouraging the potatoes to sprout before planting, ensuring a more successful and timely harvest. This practice, although labor-intensive and time-consuming, was essential for farmers to maintain a consistent and productive crop yield. "Forcing the Murphies" is not only a testament to the rich agricultural history of the United Kingdom but also a reminder of the ingenuity and humor that W. Heath Robinson brought to his work. This print continues to delight and inspire viewers with its whimsical portrayal of a bygone era.
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