Illustration, The Cuckoo

Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library

Illustration, The Cuckoo

Illustration, The Cuckoo - mother carrying small child.
late 19th century

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 23098152

© Mary Evans Picture Library

Bennett Carry Cuckoo Harriet Harriett Poem Toddler Toddlers

FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Animals > Birds > Cuckoos > Related Images

> Mary Evans Prints Online > New Images August 2021

EDITORS COMMENTS
In this enchanting late 19th century illustration, titled "The Cuckoo," by the renowned English artist Harriet Bennett, we witness a heartwarming scene of motherly love and devotion. The illustration depicts a woman, dressed in the fashionable attire of the era, tenderly carrying a small child on her hip. Her other hand cradles the hand of a toddler, who gazes up at her with innocent curiosity. The scene exudes a sense of tranquility and contentment, as if capturing a moment of pure joy in the everyday life of a mother. The title of the illustration, "The Cuckoo," may initially seem incongruous with the image of a mother and her children. However, this title is derived from a popular English poem of the same name, which explores the metaphorical connection between the cuckoo bird and the human experience of motherhood. In the poem, the cuckoo bird is described as laying its eggs in the nests of other birds, leaving the host parents to raise its young. The poem reflects on the sacrifices and selflessness of motherhood, as the mother bird unknowingly nurtures another creature's offspring, just as the human mother unconditionally loves and cares for her own children. This beautiful illustration serves as a poignant reminder of the boundless love and devotion that a mother holds for her children, as well as the enduring symbolism of the cuckoo bird in our collective cultural consciousness. The intricate details of the woman's clothing, the tender expressions on their faces, and the warm glow of the setting sun all contribute to the timeless and evocative nature of this image.

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.