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Our Little Contemptibles, 1914 (oil on canvas)
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Our Little Contemptibles, 1914 (oil on canvas)
2975397 Our A Little ContemptiblesA, 1914 (oil on canvas) by Wollen, William Barnes (1857-1936); National Army Museum, London; (add.info.: Composed of regular soldiers and reservists, the British Expeditionary Force landed on the Continent in August in 1914. During the early months of World War One (1914-1918) it was engaged in slowing down the German advance. This painting depicts open warfare with British infantry wearing large packs, taking cover behind a hedge; German artillery in the distance.
The title of the canvas relates to an order given by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany (1859 -1941) to the commander of his First Army, Alexander von Kluck (1846-1934), in August, 1914:-
A It is my Royal and Imperial Command that you concentrate your energiesA... and all the valour of my soldiers to exterminate first the treacherous English; walk over General Frenchs insignificant [or contemptible] little Army.); eNational Army Museum; English, out of copyright
Media ID 23135906
© National Army Museum / Bridgeman Images
Battlefields British Expeditionary Force Western Front 1914 1918 Wwi Ww One First World War 1914 1918 Great War
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Our Little Contemptibles, 1914
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a powerful oil painting by William Barnes Wollen that captures the intensity and bravery of British soldiers during World War One. The artwork, housed in the National Army Museum in London, depicts a scene of open warfare with British infantry taking cover behind a hedge while German artillery looms in the distance. The title of the painting refers to an order given by Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany to his First Army commander, Alexander von Kluck. In this command, he referred to the British Expeditionary Force as "General French's insignificant little Army" underestimating their strength and determination. Wollen's masterpiece portrays not only the physical challenges faced by these soldiers but also their unwavering spirit and resilience. The composition showcases regular soldiers and reservists who landed on the Continent in August 1914 to slow down the German advance. The artist skillfully captures every detail, from the large packs worn by British infantrymen to their cautious positioning behind natural cover. This image serves as a testament to their courage and sacrifice during one of history's most devastating conflicts. "Our Little Contemptibles" stands as a poignant reminder of those who fought for freedom against overwhelming odds. It immortalizes their valiant efforts and pays tribute to all those who served selflessly during World War One.
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