Home > Arts > Artists > H > William Heath
Hint to the Ministry of Health by Heath Robinson
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Hint to the Ministry of Health by Heath Robinson
A new fresh air bedroom for the prevention of flu. An outdoor bedroom designed by the ever-inventive William Heath Robinson, built (or rather, arranged) to avoid the hazards of Spanish influenza sweeping the globe in 1918 to 1919. Date: 1919
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14139219
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Amusing Bedroom Bedrooms Epidemic Fresh Health Heath Hint Influenza Inventive Ministry Pandemic Prevention Robinson Silly Sleeping 1919 Preventative
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> H
> William Heath
> Humour
> Heath Robinson
> Popular Themes
> Heath Robinson
EDITORS COMMENTS
This whimsical print by the ingenious British cartoonist, William Heath Robinson, offers a humorous yet insightful suggestion to the Ministry of Health during the height of the Spanish Influenza pandemic in 1918-1919. Titled "Hint to the Ministry of Health," this cartoon depicts an outdoor bedroom designed to prevent the spread of the deadly virus. In the image, a man lies comfortably in a bed that appears to be suspended from the branches of trees, surrounded by a canopy of leaves. A chimney-like structure emits a steady stream of fresh air, while a pair of hands crank a large fan to circulate the breeze. A ladder leads up to the bedroom, and a sign on the ground reads "Keep Off the Grass." Robinson's inventive design aims to address the primary causes of the flu's transmission: close contact with infected individuals and poor ventilation. By creating a bedroom in the open air, Robinson believed that individuals could avoid the crowded living conditions that facilitated the spread of the disease. The cartoon's playful and absurd nature adds an amusing touch to the serious issue of public health. Despite the seemingly impractical nature of the bedroom, the cartoon highlights the importance of fresh air and social distancing in preventing the spread of contagious diseases. As we continue to navigate the challenges of modern pandemics, this cartoon serves as a reminder of the ingenuity and resourcefulness of those who came before us. Robinson's "Hint to the Ministry of Health" is not only a testament to the power of humor in addressing difficult situations but also a reminder of the importance of taking preventative measures to protect our health and well-being.
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
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.
