FW073 Goodbye-ee
Product reference photograph.

King & Country · First World War · FW073

A Scottish soldier embraces his sweetheart in FW073. His khaki uniform, pack and slung rifle announce his departure, while her patterned skirt and civilian blouse make the contrast immediate. The two figures form one close farewell scene rather than a military action group.

Historical inspiration

Mobilization separated soldiers from partners and families, making railway departures and leave-taking a recurring subject in wartime photographs and popular culture. The title echoes the language of a farewell song, but the model does not identify a particular couple. Its historical subject is the personal separation that accompanied enlistment and departure for service.

FW073 Goodbye-ee
Product reference photograph. King & Country photograph, via Sagers Soldiers.

Review

The embrace carries the whole scene; it does not need an elaborate backdrop to explain itself. The equipment is particularly effective because the soldier is visibly ready to leave even as he holds on. This is one of the range’s more personal subjects, with the civilian figure sharing the focus.

Reference: FW073 release reference. Review observations are based on the product reference photographs.

Related figures: FW046 · Wounded · FW061 · General Foch.

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