The Orphans, from "Illustrated London News" 1867

This print, "The Orphans", was made by William Luson Thomas and appeared in the "Illustrated London News," a British newspaper known for its engravings. It's based on a painting by Kate Swift, whose name you can see at the bottom of the print. The image presents a Victorian vision of poverty and loss. We see two children standing by a grave, presumably that of their parents, with a loyal dog by their side. The inclusion of this image in the "Illustrated London News" shows the cultural interest in the figure of the orphan, a common subject in Victorian literature and art that reflected concerns about social welfare and the family unit. The print also hints at the institutional art world of Victorian England, for it makes explicit reference to the fact that the original painting it is based on was part of an exhibition of works by female artists. To understand this image better, scholars might research the Victorian social welfare system, the role of women in the art world, and popular imagery of orphans in the period.