Home > Arts > Artists > H > William Heath
William Heath Robinson interrogated in France, WW1
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
William Heath Robinson interrogated in France, WW1
An autobiographical sketch by William Heath Robinson, published in his memoirs, My Line of Life, illustrating an incident at St. Nazaire when he visited the American Army in France. Unable to produce the correct papers to explain why he was there, he narrowly avoided arrest. Date: 1918
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14232385
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Autobiographical Cartoonist Civilian Gendarme Heath Interrogated Memoirs Nazaire Papers Permit Permits Questioning Robinson Sketching Artists
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> H
> William Heath
> Arts
> Artists
> Heath Robinson
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Still life art
> Still life paintings
> Arts
> Still life artwork
> Still life art
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Still life artwork
> Still life paintings
> Arts
> Street art graffiti
> Still life
> Still life artwork
> Historic
> World War I and II
> Civilians during the war
> Popular Themes
> Heath Robinson
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative black-and-white photograph, renowned British artist and illustrator William Heath Robinson sits calmly before a French gendarme during an interrogation at St. Nazaire, France, in 1918. The First World War had brought the artist to the front lines, not as a soldier, but as a civilian seeking inspiration for his work. Heath Robinson, known for his whimsical and intricate cartoons and drawings, had traveled to France to observe the war firsthand. Armed with only his sketchbook and pencils, he hoped to capture the essence of the conflict and its impact on the people. However, the wartime tension and the strict regulations enforced by the French authorities proved to be a challenge. As he went about his work, Heath Robinson was stopped by the gendarme, who demanded to see his papers. The artist, unable to produce the necessary permits, found himself facing the possibility of arrest. With a cool composure, he explained his purpose for being there and showed his sketchbook as evidence. The gendarme, seemingly satisfied, allowed him to continue his work, sparing Heath Robinson from a potentially dangerous situation. This incident, which Heath Robinson later recounted in his memoirs, "My Line of Life," serves as a testament to the artist's determination and resourcefulness. The photograph, with its stark contrasts and tense atmosphere, provides a glimpse into the challenges and uncertainties faced by artists during wartime. The image remains a powerful reminder of the role art plays in capturing history and the lengths artists will go to bring truth and understanding to their audiences.
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.
