#boer war

Destiny (1900), by J.W. Waterhouse

This work was painted by Waterhouse to support the injured soldiers and widows of the British army that fought in the Boer War against South African rebels (1899-1902).  More than 300 artworks were sold for a total of 12,000 pound sterling.

The work resembles the 1894 version of The Lady of Shalott, but the red and white dress and blue cup represent the colours of the Union Jack, clearly stating that this is a British lady looking at a departing army that is visible in the mirror.

The pith helmet is a light, but firm, piece of protective head-wear made out of cork or pith from the sola plant covered in cloth. The helmet does little to protect a soldier from incoming projectiles, but does a great deal to keep the sun off his scalp, face, and neck. The top example is a Wolseley pattern helmet, as worn by the 17th Lancers during the Boer Wars. The cap badge reads “For Glory.” The bottom example is more modern. It is of French design, copied by the N.V.A. It’s a more practical design, truth be told, thanks to its wider brim and ventalation button at the peak.

All That Was Left Of Them, by Richard Caton Woodville. The painting depicts C Squadron of the 17th Lancers at Modderfontein in the Second Boer War. A lovely painting from a singularly unlovely war.

An illustration of Boers engaging British forces during the Boer War (1899-1902).