Images(2)

Lion of England by Roderic Quinn

Author Roderic Joseph Quinn

Date1913-1918

Object number00031382

NamePostcard

MediumInk on paper

DimensionsOverall: 85 x 130 mm

ClassificationsPosters and postcards

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Joyce Linquist

Terms

DescriptionThis black and white postcard features an allegorical female figure, dressed in fabric decorated with the Southern Cross. She is pulling aside the Union Jack to reveal HMAS AUSTRALIA at sea. Below the ship is a poem titled 'Lion of England' written by the Australian poet Roderic Quinn.History"Lions of Old England, be not afraid! Thou shalt not fight in vain. THy cubs have grown to lionhood With tooth and claw and mane. Their unfleshed teeth are fierce and keen, Their claws are young and strong, There shall be work for claw and tooth Ere aught shall do thee wrong. Thy forest lordship shall not fail Thy kingship shall not end While they have power of flank toleap And might of jaw to rend. Lion of England bare thy claws Be strong not be afraid In that red day that draws a near Thou shalt not lack for aid."SignificanceThis postcard is part of a the WA Stanley collection, which documents the history of Cockatoo Island - one of Australia's most important dockyards - and provides insight into the lives of the people who worked there.
Mr Stanley worked in the drawing office of the island from 1915 to 1961.