Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Towns > Welling
A light load from the last-reaped field, 1864. Creator: Unknown
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
A light load from the last-reaped field, 1864. Creator: Unknown
A light load from the last-reaped field, 1864. 'The custom of giving a supper to the harvest folk has been observed from time immemorial...The jollity of the season is universally felt, and a rollicking hilariousness is everywhere apparent. This is happily shown by our Artist...Two stalwart youths - the labour of the season well-nigh over - give themselves up to the intoxication of the time, and bear aloft a damsel as the lightest load and fairest sheaf from the last-reaped field. The girl does not seem quite at ease on her extemporised throne, nor do the children who look on at first enter fully into the joke. But they speedily will. The fair occupant will soon he accustomed to her seat of honour, and so get over the little trepidation which, in common with her sisters of more exalted rank, she naturally feels; and the flickering smile on the faces of the onlookers wall quickly broaden into a grin...Let us be thankful, in conclusion, to the Giver of all Good for having provided such a fund of enjoyment to his creatures in the simple exercise of their faculties; and may our labouring population have their toils more and more lightened by innocent mirth and graceful relaxation!'. From "Illustrated London News", 1864
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 38073577
© The Print Collector/Heritage Images
Agricultural Workers Celebrating Celebration Celebrations Farm Hands Farm Labourers Farm Workers Farmhands Farmworkers Happiness Happy Harvest Harvest Festival Harvesting Sheaf Sheaves Wheat Wheat Sheaves Agricultural Worker Farm Hand Farm Labourer Farm Worker Farmhand Farmworker Young Man
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Animals
> Mammals
> Black Bear
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Events
> Related Images
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Towns
> Welling
> Humour
> Related Images
EDITORS COMMENTS
This charming print captures a moment of joy and celebration in the midst of harvest season in 1864. The custom of giving a supper to the harvest folk is depicted with two strong young men playfully carrying a young woman aloft as if she were the lightest load from the last-reaped field. The scene exudes a sense of rollicking hilarity, with everyone caught up in the festive spirit.
The girl perched on her impromptu throne appears slightly uneasy at first, but it is clear that she will soon embrace her role as the fair sheaf of the harvest. Even the children watching seem hesitant at first, but their initial reserve quickly gives way to laughter and enjoyment.
As we look upon this image, we are reminded to be grateful for simple pleasures and moments of innocent mirth that bring lightness to our lives. The artist has beautifully captured not just a scene from harvest time, but also a universal feeling of camaraderie and happiness shared among laboring populations during this special time of year.
May we all find ways to lighten our burdens through moments of grace and relaxation, just as these individuals have done amidst their hard work in the fields.
MADE IN THE USA
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
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
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 Cart.
