GRAVÜR DÜNYASI
Digital Engraving Library
| Artist | William Simpson (1823–1899) |
| Engraver | Thomas Picken (1815-1870) |
| Date | 1856 |
| Technique | Lithography, Sepia-toned |
| Category | Military |
| Source | The Campaign in the Crimea: An Historical Sketch by George Brackenbury, London, Published Oct. 1, 1856 by Paul & Dominic Colnaghi & Co., Day & Son Lithographers to the Queen |
he engraving documents one of the most emotional moments of the Crimean War, the death and funeral of Lord Raglan. The engraving monumentally depicts the funeral procession of Lord Raglan, the commander-in-chief of the British army in the Crimean War, leaving headquarters. Lord FitzRoy Somerset, 1st Baron Raglan (1788–1855), who commanded British forces throughout most of the war, died of illness (dysentery and exhaustion) on 28 June 1855 during the siege of Sevastopol. The composition features mounted officers, lined up soldiers and the covered hearse carrying Raglan’s body, set against the backdrop of a military camp. Lord Raglan’s death highlights the devastating effects of war not only on the soldiers but also on the military leadership. The engraving captures the emotional dimension of both military mourning and the solidarity between officers. It is one of the few funerals recorded during the Crimean War. William Simpson, who painted this engraving, was a painter and engraver sent to war zones for The Illustrated London News during the Crimean War.
