Rights Managed > Historic England > Fame > Charles Darwin and Down House > Darwin's scientific research
Down House, cupboard under the stairs J980016
Filename: J980016.jpg
Size: 4771 x 3808 (17.3MB)
Date: 13th March 2009
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Photo Library
Source: English Heritage Images
Job Title: Staff Photographer
© Historic England
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Down House, cupboard under the stairs J980016
DOWN HOUSE, Kent. Interior view. Items stored in the cupboard under the stairs. For many years Darwin was too reticent to publish his theory and so hid his papers in the cupboard under the stairs in an envelope marked Only to be opened in the event of my death
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 1439405
© Historic England
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a glimpse into the intimate world of Charles Darwin at Down House in Kent. The focus of this image lies within the cupboard under the stairs, revealing a fascinating secret that lay hidden for many years. It is here that Darwin chose to safeguard his groundbreaking theory, too reticent to publish it during his lifetime. In an envelope marked "Only to be opened in the event of my death" he stored his precious papers and ideas. The significance of this artifact cannot be overstated. Within these walls, Darwin's revolutionary thoughts on evolution and natural selection were kept concealed from public scrutiny until after his passing. This humble cupboard became both a sanctuary for his intellectual pursuits and a testament to his cautious nature. Jonathan Bailey's skillful composition allows us to witness history firsthand by capturing not only the physical space but also the weighty implications held within its contents. As we gaze upon this photograph, we are reminded of Darwin's unwavering dedication to scientific inquiry and how he navigated societal pressures with utmost discretion. Through this thought-provoking image, Historic England provides us with an opportunity to reflect on one man's extraordinary contributions while simultaneously shedding light on the human side behind scientific breakthroughs.
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