Glass Place Mat : Dirty Father Thames

Add to Basket

Home Decor from Universal Images Group (UIG)

Dirty Father Thames

Dirty Father Thames : More an open sewer than a river, the disgusting state of the Thames in London in 1849, the year of the Great Stink when Parliament was suspended because of the smell. Cartoon from " Punch", London, 1849

Universal Images Group (UIG) manages distribution for many leading specialist agencies worldwide

Media ID 9700447

© Universal History Archive

1849 Allegorical Painting Beard British Culture Bucket Carrying Cartoon Dirty Fish Healthcare And Medicine Large Group Of Animals Looking Away One Senior Man Only Pollution Punch Sewer Thames River United Kingdom Western Script Father Thames Public Health

Glass Place Mat (Set of 4)

Set of 4 Glass Place Mats. Stylish and elegant polished safety glass, toughened and heat resistant (275x225mm, 7mm thick). Matching Coasters also available.

Set of 4 Glass Place Mats. Elegant polished safety glass and heat resistant. Matching Coasters may also be available

Estimated Image Size (if not cropped) is 25.4cm x 18.8cm (10" x 7.4")

Estimated Product Size is 27.5cm x 22.5cm (10.8" x 8.9")

These are individually made so all sizes are approximate

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print titled "Dirty Father Thames" takes us back to the year 1849, when London's iconic river was more of an open sewer than a flowing waterway. The image, originally published in the renowned satirical magazine "Punch" captures the disgusting state of the Thames during what became known as the Great Stink. In this cartoon-like depiction, we see a full-length view of Father Thames himself, personified as a senior man standing tall amidst filth and pollution. With his long beard and determined expression, he carries a bucket filled with dirty water, symbolizing the deplorable condition of the river. Behind him is a large group of animals representing various species that once called these contaminated waters home. The artwork serves as both social commentary and historical documentation. It sheds light on public health concerns prevalent in 19th-century London while highlighting British culture at that time. The suspension of Parliament due to unbearable odors emanating from the Thames underscores just how dire this situation had become. Through this allegorical painting, we are reminded of our past and how far we have come in terms of healthcare and medicine. It prompts us to appreciate efforts made towards environmental conservation and preservation today. As we gaze upon this striking image captured by Universal Images Group (UIG), it becomes evident why cleaning up Father Thames was such an urgent matter for Londoners during that era.

MADE IN THE UK
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

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 Basket.