Do You Know: Why do sailors drink the King's health sitting? (colour litho)

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Do You Know: Why do sailors drink the King's health sitting? (colour litho)

8668152 Do You Know: Why do sailors drink the King's health sitting? (colour litho) by English School, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Why do sailors drink the King's health sitting? Beliefs vary as to the origin of the Royal Navy's privilege of drinking the King's health while seated - this custom is only maintained by officers - but it is stated William IV, while Duke of Clarence, bumped his head, and then conceded the privilege. Alternatively it is suggested George IV, when acting as Regent, said, as the officers rose, "Gentlemen, pray be seated, your loyalty is above suspicion". Probably the real reason is that on a great many ships it was impossible to stand erect "between decks"; nowadays, in gunrooms, tables are fixed against settees, which precludes practically half the officers standing erect with any degree of dignity. Illustration for one of a set of 50 "Do You Know?" cigarette cards issued by Carreras in 1939.); © Look and Learn

Media ID 38197722

© © Look and Learn / Bridgeman Images

Faithful Faithfulness Fidelity Florals Learn Loyalty Mariners Roses Sailor Sailoress Sat Down Seaman Stereoscopic Card Stereoscopy Tables Wild Roses Years 1930 Years 30 Years Thirty

EDITORS COMMENTS
This vibrant colour lithograph print titled "Do You Know: Why do sailors drink the King's health sitting?" by the English School captures a fascinating historical tradition within the Royal Navy. The image depicts a group of officers seated around a table, raising their glasses in toast to the King. The custom of drinking the King's health while seated has sparked various theories about its origins. Some believe it dates back to William IV, who supposedly granted this privilege after bumping his head. Others suggest that George IV, acting as Regent, made a gesture of trust towards his officers by asking them to remain seated during the toast. However, practicality may have played a significant role in this tradition as well. Many ships had low ceilings between decks, making it difficult for officers to stand upright. This led to tables being fixed against settees in gunrooms, limiting space for standing with dignity. This intriguing illustration is part of a series of 50 "Do You Know?" cigarette cards issued by Carreras in 1939 and offers a glimpse into naval customs and history. It serves as a reminder of the unique traditions and rituals that have shaped maritime culture over centuries.

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