If Only They d Make Old Bill President of those Tribunals
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
If Only They d Make Old Bill President of those Tribunals
" well, whats your job, me lad?" " Making spots for rocking-horses, sir" " Three months" " Exemption, sir?" " Nao, exemption be _____d ! Three months hard!" Cartoon by Captain Bruce Bairnsfather in The Bystander imagining his gruff cartoon character, Old Bill, sitting on a tribunal making decisions about whether mens employment exempts them from military service. In this case, Old Bill has no sympathy for a man with an inconsequential job and instantly condemns him to three months hard labour! Date: 1917
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14170644
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Bairnsfather Bill Bruce Bystander Character Employment Manpower Tribunal Exemption
If Only They'd Make Old Bill President of those Tribunals!
EDITORS COMMENTS
This cartoon by renowned British satirist, Captain Bruce Bairnsfather, published in The Bystander in 1917 during World War I, offers a humorous take on the military tribunals and the exemption process. In this image, Old Bill, Bairnsfather's iconic gruff and no-nonsense character, sits sternly at the head of a tribunal, surrounded by officials. A man, with a confused expression, approaches him, asking, "Well, what's your job, me lad?" To which Old Bill retorts, "Making spots for rocking-horses, sir?" The man replies, "Three months," to which Old Bill responds, "Exemption, sir? Nao, exemption be _____d! Three months hard!" Old Bill's unforgiving demeanor and quick judgement reflect the public's growing frustration with the exemption process during the war. With manpower a crucial resource, the British government established military tribunals to determine which men were essential to the war effort and which could be excused from military service. This cartoon highlights the perceived absurdity of some of the exemptions granted, fueling public discontent and adding to the satirical commentary of the time. Bairnsfather's cartoon, with its witty dialogue and insightful commentary, offers a unique perspective on the historical context of World War I and the challenges faced by the British government during the war. This piece of art serves as a reminder of the complexities and nuances of the war effort and the role of satire in shaping public opinion.
MADE IN THE USA
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
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
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.
