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John Gilpin wipes his sweaty brow with a handkerchief, 1878, (c1918). Creator: Randolph Caldecott
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John Gilpin wipes his sweaty brow with a handkerchief, 1878, (c1918). Creator: Randolph Caldecott
John Gilpin wipes his sweaty brow with a handkerchief, 1878, (c1918). John Gilpin was the subject of a comic ballad of 1782 by William Cowper entitled " The Diverting History of John Gilpin". The ballad, based on real-life character, describes how, on a journey to Edmonton (north in London), Gilpin, a draper, became separated from his wife and children after losing control of his horse, and ended up in the town of Ware, ten miles away from his intended destination. From " The Diverting History of John Gilpin", by William Cowper. [Frederick Warne and Co. London & New York, c1918]
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Media ID 18325269
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Caldecott Cowper Handkerchief John Gilpin Randolph Randolph Caldecott Sweat Sweating William Cowper
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a moment of comedic relief as John Gilpin wipes his sweaty brow with a handkerchief. Created by Randolph Caldecott in 1878, this image is based on the famous comic ballad "The Diverting History of John Gilpin" written by William Cowper in 1782. The ballad recounts the misadventures of Gilpin, a draper, who gets separated from his family during a journey to Edmonton. In this scene, we see Gilpin astride his horse after losing control and ending up in Ware instead of his intended destination. As he tries to cool himself down under the scorching sun, one can't help but feel sympathy for this hapless character caught in an unexpected situation. Caldecott's illustration perfectly captures the humor and wit present in Cowper's ballad. The monochrome tones add depth to the image while emphasizing the contrast between Gilpin's perspiring face and the pristine white handkerchief he uses to mop it up. This print not only showcases Caldecott's artistic talent but also serves as a reminder of British literary history. It transports us back to eighteenth-century England when tales like these entertained audiences with their amusing anecdotes and relatable characters. As we admire this timeless piece, let us appreciate both Caldecott's skillful interpretation and Cowper's enduring contribution to literature.
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