| Collection ID | ART93286 |
|---|---|
| Collection type | Art |
| Title | Not titled [Soldier reading |
| Measurement | sheet: 20.4 x 23.4 cm; image: 10.6 x 12.6 cm (irregular) |
| Object type | Drawing |
| Maker | Drysdale, Russell |
| Place made | Australia: New South Wales, Sydney |
| Date made | 21 June 2017 |
| Copyright | AWM copyright |
Not titled [Soldier reading
Depicts a portrait of an unidentified soldier, seated on the ground, reading a letter. The soldier is drawn wearing a slouch hat and surrounded by his personal belongings.
This drawing was made for the publication 'Soldier Superb: The Australian Fights in New Guinea' by Allan Dawes, 1943. The drawing relates to the emotional effect of receiving letters from home had on servicemen, described by Dawes as 'more galvanic than a victory in battle'. Drysdale's illustration captures with intimacy the moment of a soldier reading a letter. The man sits deeply absorbed by the words of his loved ones.
