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America in the Field by Heath Robinson, WW1
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America in the Field by Heath Robinson, WW1
War Inventions - Not Needed Now! William Heath Robinson imagines America in the field! 2. Barb-pants - to enable infantry to get out of barbed wire. Date: 1918
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Media ID 14148004
© Courtesy of the estate of Mrs J.C.Robinson/Pollinger Ltd/ILN/Mary Evans Picture Library
Amusing Attack Barb Barbed Bayonet Charge Charging Heath Infantry Inventions Pants Protective Robinson Safety Silly Trousers Wire
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In the midst of the chaos and carnage of the First World War, the mind of British satirical artist William Heath Robinson (1872-1944) was a haven of whimsy and humor. In this print from 1918, titled "America in the Field: Not Needed Now!," Robinson imagines the American troops charging into the heart of the conflict, armed with an array of fantastical and impractical inventions designed to overcome the formidable challenge of barbed wire. At the forefront of the charge is a soldier wearing an elaborate pair of "Barb-pants," which resemble trousers with large, bulbous legs that seem to sprout from the waist. These peculiar garments are intended to protect the infantrymen from the deadly barbs of the wire, allowing them to safely navigate the battlefield. The scene is filled with other amusing inventions, such as a soldier with a large, unwieldy bayonet attached to a long pole, enabling him to attack from a distance. Another soldier carries a massive, wheeled shield, while yet another is perched atop a pair of oversized stilts, providing him with a bird's-eye view of the battlefield. Despite the absurdity of these inventions, there is a sense of determination and resolve in the soldiers' expressions, as they charge forward with unwavering commitment. The print serves as a poignant reminder of the ingenuity, resilience, and humor that characterized the human spirit during the darkest days of the First World War. William Heath Robinson's "America in the Field: Not Needed Now!" is a testament to the power of art to provide solace and levity in the face of adversity. This print, with its intricate detail and witty commentary on the realities of war, continues to resonate with audiences today, offering a unique perspective on a pivotal moment in history.
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