The Dame School 1887

Frederick George Cotman’s 1887 painting "The Dame School" depicts a traditional British classroom scene. An elderly teacher sits at the head of the class, instructing her young pupils. The painting captures the atmosphere of a bygone era, with its simple furnishings and the children’s attentive faces. The scene is filled with detail, from the worn floorboards to the framed prints on the walls, providing a glimpse into the everyday life of a rural schoolhouse. The painting is a testament to Cotman’s skill in depicting the warmth and humanity of everyday life.