The Law Divine by H V Esmond
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
The Law Divine by H V Esmond
The Law Divine by H. V. Esmond. First produced at Wyndhams Theatre, 29th August 1918. Cupid has broken his arrow on the door labelled Womens Advisory Committee. The law divine according to the heroine, is: at a certain point in their marriage husbands go to drink or other women. Her husband, at least, has the excuse that she is immersed in her (war) work - a then new feminist twist to an old problem. Date: circa 1918
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14253302
© The Michael Diamond Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
Advisory Arrow Arrows Committee Cupid Cupids Divine Esmond Panto Pantomime Theatrical
EDITORS COMMENTS
The Law Divine" by H.V. Esmond: A Theatrical Exploration of Marital Infidelity and Feminist Ideas during WWI This evocative black-and-white photograph captures a scene from H.V. Esmond's play "The Law Divine," first produced at Wyndhams Theatre in 1918. The image finds Cupid, the god of love, in a surprising predicament: he has broken his arrow on the door labeled "Women's Advisory Committee." The law divine, as understood by the heroine, states that at a certain point in their marriage, husbands will stray - be it to the bottle or to other women. In this production, set against the backdrop of World War I, the heroine's husband is given a newfound justification for his potential indiscretions: she is deeply engrossed in her war work, a then-novel feminist perspective on an age-old problem. The 1910s marked a transformative era in both the arts and society, with the First World War serving as a catalyst for change. This theatrical piece, much like the pantomime or panto productions popular during that time, offers a glimpse into the social, cultural, and emotional complexities of the period. The image of Cupid, once the embodiment of love and desire, now frustrated and powerless, underscores the shifting tides of relationships and societal norms. As we delve deeper into this snapshot of history, we are reminded of the enduring power of the stage to reflect, challenge, and ultimately shape our collective consciousness. "The Law Divine" stands as a testament to the transformative potential of popular entertainment and the enduring relevance of the human condition. This photograph is a Rights Managed image from Mary Evans Prints Online, and is not to be used for commercial purposes without proper clearance.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
