Vimy
Mediumhand-coloured reproduction on cream card
ClassificationsPrints
Copyright© Charles Johnson Payne
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDAG016484
About MeThis is a scene from the Battle of Vimy Ridge during the First World War. Vimy is an area in Northern France that was heavily defended during the war by the Germans, who used it to control the surrounding territory. However, on the 2nd April 1917 the Canadian Corps initiated an attack on the ridge and after several days of warfare took control of the area. Here, Charles Johnson Payne who was an equestrian painter (hence the nick name 'Snaffles'), as well as a military painter captures three soldiers advancing toward enemy lines. On the ground you can see the debris of war, bullets, dropped guns, even someone's helmet. The soldier at the back of the composition is raising his arm to throw a hand grenade.
