A War Bird's Burlesque (Letters and Memorabilia Belonging to James McBey)
RecipientReceived by
James McBey
(Newburgh, Scotland, 1883 - 1959)
SenderSent by
Anna Lee Smyth
Datec. 1929
Object NameSong
Mediumpaper and ink
ClassificationsMcBey
Dimensions22.5 x 18.2cm
AcquisitionPresented in 1988 by Mrs Marguerite McBey.
Copyright© Aberdeen City Council (McBey Collection)
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDAG008357.41
Keywords
"A portly Roman Senator was sipping his Rock and Rye. When a classic Vestal Virgin caught his educated eye."
The song has nine verses which detail a young officer slipping into the "Vestal Virgin's" bed while the "Senator" is away, but finally the "Senator" forgives her.
This object is part of an archive that belonged to Marguerite McBey. As a result of her generosity, Aberdeen Art Gallery holds the largest archive of James McBey's work, including prints, drawings, sketchbooks, oil paintings and memorabilia such as this song.
