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John Gilpin gallops past the Bell Inn as his wife and children wave from the balcony, 1878, (c1918)
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John Gilpin gallops past the Bell Inn as his wife and children wave from the balcony, 1878, (c1918)
John Gilpin gallops past the Bell Inn at Edmonton as his wife and children wave from the balcony, 1878, (c1918). 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, Shewing how he went Father than he intended, and came safe Home again", by William Cowper. [Frederick Warne and Co. London & New York, c1918]
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Media ID 18776287
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
Balconies Balcony Bell Inn Caldecott Cowper Edmonton Edmund Edmund Evans Enfield Evans Galloping John Gilpin Out Of Control Randolph Randolph Caldecott Waving William Cowper Wives Metaphor
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a moment from the famous comic ballad "The Diverting History of John Gilpin" by William Cowper. In this scene, set in 1878 but printed around 1918, we witness the chaotic yet humorous journey of John Gilpin as he gallops past the Bell Inn at Edmonton. His wife and children anxiously wave from the balcony above, their faces filled with both concern and amusement. John Gilpin, a draper by profession, finds himself separated from his family after losing control of his horse during their trip to Edmonton. Instead of reaching their intended destination, they end up in Ware, ten miles away. This comical misadventure has become an enduring metaphor for unexpected detours in life. The image itself is an engraving created by Randolph Caldecott and Edmund Evans. It showcases intricate architectural details such as balconies and avenues that evoke the charm of 18th-century Britain. The vibrant colors bring life to this whimsical scene where man and animal collide amidst laughter and confusion. As we observe this snapshot frozen in time, we are reminded of the enduring appeal of storytelling through art. The print not only captures a specific historical period but also reflects universal themes like marriage, family dynamics, and human resilience in moments when life spirals out of control. Overall, this print serves as a delightful reminder that even amidst chaos and unpredictability, there is always room for laughter and joy on our journeys through life's unexpected twists and turns.
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