"Quis Separabit . . . Home Rule"

c. 1912

John Fergus O'Hea

Drawing

Height: 23cm
Width: 30cm

Pen and ink drawing by John Fergus O'Hea (circa 1838-1922) - a political cartoonist and nationalist who sometimes published under the pseudonym Spex. This satirical cartoon reflects the artist's pro-home-rule sympathies. The women are depicted in the national dress of their country - Ireland, England, Scotland and Wales. The following inscription is written on the back of the drawing: 'Toasting the Easter Cake "Now girls a toast, Here's to a long friendship and a strong friendship - and may we pull together and push together now and ever" Chorus - Amen! Say we all of us."' The English lady is wearing a sash, the only visible letters are HONI SO..., perhaps "Honi soit qui mal y pense", "Shamed be he who thinks evil of it". It is the motto of the English chivalric Order of the Garter.

Purchase supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund

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