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The Way of Life, illustration from The Book of Old English Songs and Ballads, published by Hodder and Stoughton, c. 1910 (colour litho)
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The Way of Life, illustration from The Book of Old English Songs and Ballads, published by Hodder and Stoughton, c. 1910 (colour litho)
IL314819 The Way of Life, illustration from The Book of Old English Songs and Ballads, published by Hodder and Stoughton, c.1910 (colour litho) by Fortescue-Brickdale, Eleanor (1871-1945); Private Collection; (add.info.: Why so large cost, having so short a lease, William Shakespeare (1564-1616); )
Media ID 25213894
© Bridgeman Images
Ballad Churchyard Graveyard Pompous Song Tombstone Tombstones Vain
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The Way of Life
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating illustration from "The Book of Old English Songs and Ballads" published by Hodder and Stoughton around 1910. Created by the talented artist Eleanor Fortescue-Brickdale, this color lithograph transports us to a graveyard scene filled with poetic symbolism. In the foreground, we see a vain man dressed in an elaborate Stuart costume, standing beside tombstones. His pompous demeanor suggests a pedantic nature as he fusses over his appearance. The contrast between his extravagant attire and the somber surroundings highlights the fleeting nature of life itself. The ballad depicted here speaks to William Shakespeare's famous quote: "Why so large cost, having so short a lease". It reminds viewers that despite our desires for grandeur and material possessions, life is transient. Fortescue-Brickdale's attention to detail shines through in her meticulous rendering of the churchyard setting. The tombstones stand as silent witnesses to human mortality while also serving as inspiration for poetry and song. This evocative print captures both the beauty and fragility of existence, inviting us to reflect on our own priorities in life. It serves as a poignant reminder that true fulfillment lies not in worldly possessions or vanity but rather in embracing each moment with humility and gratitude.
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