Through the Shepard Archive

[daggers]

This book describes of some of the work of the artist E. H. Shepard, now in the archives of the University of Surrey. Many sketches dating from his childhood and later life show his skill as an illustrator, but for this Forum the main interest is in Chapter 6 - The Great War.

Shepard served as an officer in 24th Brigade RGA (although the author refers to it as a Regiment) and was awarded a Military Cross. The chapter shows landscape sketches done on the Western Front, a few cartoons of soldiers, some similar to Bairnsfather's and a couple of self-portraits. It is interesting that the artist was able to continue his connection with Punch magazine while on active service! He served in his local LDV and Home Guard unit thoughout its WW2 existence.

The author explains that the archive has no Winnie the Pooh material, all having been bought by the Disney organisation, but there are other representatives of Shepard's work to enjoy.

Written by Arthur R. Chandler. Published in 2000 by Jaydem Books, West Sussex, reprinted 2002. ISBN 1903368022.

D

PS no sniggering at the topic description which is the sub-title of the book.