Demobilised Collection

Twenty-eight days furlough by Alfred Leete
A British soldier waits patiently, along with many others at a dispersal station as he goes through the process of demobilisation at the end of the First World War. Date: 1919

The Brides Steamer (Colour Litho)
2808786 The Brides Steamer (Colour Litho) by Beltrame, Achille (1871-1945); Private Collection; (add.info.: The brides steamer)

The warlike ardor of our people, enthusiastic, triumphant receptions to the dismissed soldiers... (colour litho)
2808480 The warlike ardor of our people, enthusiastic, triumphant receptions to the dismissed soldiers... (colour litho) by Beltrame

Old Billisation by Bruce Bairnsfather
Old Bill got very severely checked the other day for anticipating demobilisation by wearing some mufti that he had sent out to him from home

A husband hunting expedition by Gladys Peto
Ladies eagerly arrive at a ball for demobilised officers in an illustration which is cheekily entitled, A husband-hunting expedition

Moss Bros advertisement, end of WW1, demobilisation
Advertisement for Moss Bros Ltd, naval, military and civil outfitters informing customers of the changes at the store due to demobilisation following the end of the First World War

Demobilisation - pivotal and slip men in Whitehall
Demobilised men at the Demobilisation Office in Whitehall waiting to get their papers. The group here are captioned as pivotal (the job creators)

A Soldiers Return (oil on panel)
XYC159632 A Soldiers Return (oil on panel) by Morland, George (1763-1804); Yale Center for British Art, Paul Mellon Collection, USA; English, out of copyright

The Lighter Side by Bernard Hugh
A Tommy (on furlough pending discharge): Blimey! I should fancy I had my bathing costume on. A soldier returning home weighed down with a greatcoat, boots, rifle

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"Demobilised: A Journey from War to Peace" In the aftermath of World War I, a profound transformation swept across nations as soldiers returned home and demobilisation became a pivotal moment in history. The artwork "Twenty-eight days furlough" by Alfred Leete captures the bittersweet anticipation of soldiers awaiting their release from duty, yearning for the comforts of home. The war's impact on society is vividly depicted in Bruce Bairnsfather's "Old Billisation, " where the iconic character symbolizes the resilience and humor amidst adversity. Meanwhile, "The Brides Steamer" portrays joyous reunions as loved ones eagerly await returning heroes with open arms. Amidst this backdrop, Gladys Peto's painting reveals an unconventional twist - a husband hunting expedition. As women took on new roles during wartime, they sought companionship and stability upon their partners' return. Moss Bros advertisement marks the end of WWI and highlights demobilisation as men shed their military attire for civilian life. Whitehall becomes a hub for pivotal decisions regarding demobilisation, with slip men ensuring smooth transitions into peacetime routines. "The warlike ardor of our people" showcases enthusiastic receptions given to dismissed soldiers through vibrant lithography. These triumphant welcomes reflect gratitude towards those who sacrificed so much for freedom. Ethel Davies' photograph at Tilbury fort captures historical significance as Chinese Labour Corps members depart for China after contributing to post-war reconstruction efforts. Their departure represents global collaboration in rebuilding shattered societies. William Heath Robinson's cartoon aptly titled "Reconstruction" satirically illustrates challenges faced during this transformative period while emphasizing humanity's determination to rebuild what was lost. Finally, "A Soldier's Return, " an oil painting on panel evokes emotions that words cannot express – relief, love, and hope intertwine as families are reunited after years apart. Through these diverse artworks spanning various mediums and perspectives emerge stories of resilience, sacrifice, and the indomitable spirit of humanity.