The Torpedoed Sussex 1916

"The Torpedoed Sussex" is a powerful drawing by James McBey, created in 1916. The image depicts the aftermath of the sinking of the British passenger ferry SS Sussex by a German U-boat during World War I. McBey’s drawing captures the scene with a stark realism, showcasing the wreckage of the vessel and the crowds of onlookers gathering on the shore. The artist’s use of line and shading creates a sense of both chaos and human resilience in the face of tragedy. This work is a significant example of war art and serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of conflict.