Eastward Ho! August 1857, from "Illustrated London News" 1858

William Luson Thomas created this print, "Eastward Ho! August 1857," for the Illustrated London News. It depicts a scene of soldiers and their families boarding a ship, likely headed to India. This image speaks volumes about the social and political climate of Victorian England. In the 19th century, the British Empire was expanding its reach, and military campaigns were a constant presence in the news. Prints like these played a crucial role in shaping public opinion about these events. The inclusion of women and children emphasizes the personal sacrifices made in service of the Empire, appealing to sentimental values and reinforcing the idea of a unified national project. To understand this print fully, we delve into the archives of the Illustrated London News, examine military records, and explore the cultural attitudes of the time. This approach allows us to interpret art not just as aesthetic objects, but as cultural artifacts embedded in a specific time and place.