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H. L. Oakley cutting the silhouette of a fellow officer
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H. L. Oakley cutting the silhouette of a fellow officer
Captain Harry Lawrence Oakley, the famous silhouette artist, pictured cutting the silhouette of a fellow officer in what looks like a dug-out during World War One. Date: 1920s
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Media ID 20160345
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Bubblepunk
Cutting Dugout Dugouts Fellow Harry Lawrence Oakley Portraiture Silhouettes Artists Officers
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the moment of creation as American silhouette artist H.L. Oakley (1872-1948) skillfully cuts the silhouette of a fellow officer in a dugout during the 1920s. The setting of the trench, a poignant reminder of the recent horrors of World War One, adds an unexpected element of tranquility to the scene. The soldier, identified as Captain Harry Lawrence Oakley, gazes intently at the blank sheet of paper as Oakley deftly outlines his features with a pen knife. The use of natural light streaming in from the dugout entrance enhances the dramatic contrast between the dark silhouette and the bright background, creating a captivating portrait. Silhouette art gained popularity during the 18th and 19th centuries as an affordable and accessible form of portraiture. By the early 20th century, it had become a nostalgic pastime, and artists like H.L. Oakley traveled to Europe to offer their services to soldiers and civilians alike. This photograph not only showcases the artistic process but also highlights the camaraderie and shared experiences of the military community during the post-war era. The image is a poignant reminder of the human spirit's ability to find beauty and connection even in the most unlikely of places.
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