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H. L. Oakley cutting the silhouette of a fellow officer
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H. L. Oakley cutting the silhouette of a fellow officer
Captain Harry Lawrence Oakley, the famous silhouette artist, pictured cutting the silhouette of a fellow officer in what looks like a dug-out during World War One. Date: 1920s
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Media ID 14185794
© H L Oakley / Mary Evans
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the moment of camaraderie and respite during the harsh realities of the First World War. In the dimly lit dugout, H.L. Oakley, the renowned silhouette artist, focuses intently as he skillfully cuts the silhouette of his fellow officer, Captain Harry Lawrence Oakley, using only candlelight. The officers, dressed in their military uniforms, sit at a makeshift table, their rifles leaning against the wall, a bottle of liquor and a glass adding an air of informality to the scene. The men, weary from the rigors of war, watch on with curiosity and amusement. The art of silhouette cutting, a popular pastime during the 18th and 19th centuries, found new life on the battlefields of the First World War as a way for soldiers to create mementos and connect with one another. This poignant image serves as a reminder of the human spirit that endured even in the most challenging of circumstances." "The photograph, taken in the 1920s, offers a rare glimpse into the daily life of soldiers during wartime. The image is rich in historical detail, from the officers' uniforms and equipment to the simple table and candlelight that illuminates the scene. This photograph is not only a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the soldiers but also a powerful reminder of the bonds of friendship and camaraderie that were forged during the Great War." "This photograph is a valuable historical document, capturing a moment in time that is often overlooked in the annals of World War One history. It is a poignant reminder of the human side of war, and the ways in which soldiers found joy and connection amidst the chaos and hardship. The image is a testament to the enduring power of art and creativity, and the ability of the human spirit to find meaning and beauty even in the most difficult of circumstances.
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