Steady, The Drums And Fifes! – After Lady Butler

Description
This 19th-century print reproduces a celebrated military composition by Lady Butler, presenting a dramatic line of young drummers advancing through smoke and churned ground during the Peninsular War. Executed in finely graduated monochrome tones, the image emphasizes disciplined movement, tension, and resolve, with carefully observed uniforms and expressive faces forming a rhythmic horizontal procession. Subtle contrasts of light and shadow heighten depth and atmosphere, while the balanced arrangement draws the eye steadily across the scene. The subject reflects the Victorian era’s fascination with military history and moral fortitude, rendered with documentary clarity and emotional restraint. The print is complemented by an ornate gilt frame richly decorated with foliate motifs, which enhances its period presence and visual authority despite visible age-related wear. Together, image and frame offer a compelling historical work with strong decorative impact and narrative gravitas.

Artist
Lady Butler, also known as Elizabeth Thompson (1846–1933), was a prominent British painter renowned for her military subjects.

Artist Details
Trained in Italy and London, Lady Butler gained international recognition in the late 19th century for her realistic depictions of soldiers and battle scenes. Her work stood out for its empathy toward individual figures and its careful historical accuracy, earning acclaim at major exhibitions including the Royal Academy.

Movements
Victorian military art

Artist Influenced by
Influenced by the tradition of academic realism and the military paintings of Ernest Meissonier and contemporary British narrative artists.

Frame Condition
Housed in an elaborate 19th-century gilt frame with decorative leaf motifs, showing noticeable wear, losses, and surface damage consistent with age, as visible in the photographs.

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