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Lighter side of Life on an Armed Liner, WW1 by Arthur Watts
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Lighter side of Life on an Armed Liner, WW1 by Arthur Watts
Sketches of scenes on board an armed liner during the First World War by the artist Arthur Watts who was in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve. Pictures show sailors boxing, playing the piano, improvising a trapeze and rings as exercise, roller-skating and holding an impromptu concert with instruments made from barrels and other finds. Date: 1916
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Media ID 14140412
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Amusing Armed Arthur Boxing Concert Exercise Lighter Piano Roller Sailor Sailors Skating Sketches Trapeze Watts Liner
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EDITORS COMMENTS
Amidst the harsh realities of war at sea during World War I, the crew of an armed liner found moments of levity and camaraderie. In this print by British artist Arthur Watts, titled "Lighter Side of Life on an Armed Liner," we are transported to a world where sailors momentarily set aside their military duties to engage in lighter pursuits. Watts, a member of the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, skillfully captured the spirit of these seafaring men as they boxed in the ship's hold, their determined expressions a stark contrast to the playful banter that filled the air. Nearby, a sailor confidently plays the piano, the melody drifting through the ship's corridors, providing a soothing respite from the daily grind. Elsewhere, sailors have fashioned a trapeze and rings from ropes and other found materials, their laughter echoing through the ship as they take turns performing daring acrobatics. Roller-skating became a popular pastime, with sailors gliding across the deck, their skates leaving a trail of water in their wake. In a final act of creativity, a group of sailors have assembled an impromptu concert using instruments made from barrels and other ship's supplies. The joy and energy emanating from this scene is a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of these men, who found a way to bring a touch of humor and entertainment to their wartime existence. This evocative print, created in 1916, offers a rare glimpse into the lighter side of life on an armed liner during World War I. Watts' skillful brushstrokes and keen observation of human nature make this a must-have for anyone interested in naval history, military art, or the human spirit.
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