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King Cheer - drawn by James Godwin, 1864. Creator: Mason Jackson
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King Cheer - drawn by James Godwin, 1864. Creator: Mason Jackson
King Cheer - drawn by James Godwin, 1864. Illustration to a poem by George MacDonald. King Cheer he reigned in Aureoland, "With a cup for a sceptre in his hand; A jolly King at trencher and cup-He ate enough, but he drank all up, Till his head began to totter and shake, And his hands and his feet to stiffen and ache. The doctors were called, but they dared not say, "Your Majesty drinks too much tokay."...And Christmas Eve had brought no mirth, And the King thought nothing was good in the earth. Up rose the fool, whose every word Was three parts wise and one part absurd...The fool went down and opened the gate. In came a bowed man, hungry and cold, And he knelt at the dais all floored with gold. The fool caught up the King's golden plate, And set it before him. The hungry man ate. And the King beheld, with a pleased surprise, How he ate with his mouth, and his cheeks, and his eyes. And he rose himself, and took him the cup-"Drink it out, " said he, " and I'll fill it up."...And hence the blissful custom was bred That at Christmas time, when the holly is red, The palace-gates stood open wide, And the poor came in from every side...And such a king in the world was none'. From "Illustrated London News", 1864
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Media ID 38078516
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print of King Cheer, drawn by James Godwin in 1864, captures the essence of a jolly and generous ruler. The illustration brings to life a poem by George MacDonald, depicting King Cheer as a merry monarch who indulges in food and drink until he realizes that true happiness comes from helping others.
In the image, we see King Cheer with a cup for a scepter in his hand, surrounded by opulence and riches. However, it is not until he witnesses the selfless act of a humble fool feeding a hungry man that he learns the true meaning of joy. Inspired by this simple act of kindness, King Cheer opens his palace gates to welcome the poor and needy during Christmas time.
The story behind this illustration serves as a powerful reminder that generosity and compassion are what truly make someone great. It is not wealth or power that defines us, but our ability to give back to those less fortunate.
James Godwin's intricate details and Mason Jackson's expert printing bring this heartwarming tale to life in vivid detail. This print is not just an artwork; it is a testament to the enduring message of love and charity that resonates through generations.
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