The Old Man and His Sons c. 1811 - 1823

This is a wood engraving entitled 'The Old Man and His Sons' by Thomas Bewick, an English engraver and natural history author, who lived from 1753 to 1828. The image depicts an old man sitting on a bench, while his sons engage in a tug-of-war. Bewick was working during a time of significant social and economic change in England, marked by the rise of industrialization and urbanization. His engravings often reflect a nostalgia for rural life and values. In this image, the tug-of-war can be seen as a metaphor for the challenges and conflicts that arise within families, and more broadly in society. Bewick's work invites us to reflect on the importance of tradition, community, and connection to the natural world. To understand Bewick better, we need to consider the period in which he was working, looking at historical documents, literature, and art criticism of the time. By examining the social and institutional context, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the meanings and messages embedded in this image.