An omnibus ride to Piccadilly

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Artist Alfred Morgan (British, 1836–1924) - An Omnibus Ride to Piccadilly (Mr Gladstone Travelling with Ordinary Passengers), 1885

A work of art should in the first instance appeal to the heart and soul, it should have an overall appeal. The moment you rationalize it, it becomes an intellectual exercise that robs you of the joy of just enjoying it without any reason.

But the love for art extends into trying to find something unusual or to discover something the artist particularly wishes to express. This exercise can have pleasant results, helping  in appreciating the work better.

So what I see in this painting is that the central figure is obviously Mr.Gladstone (wearing the black top hat). He was an important figure having served as British Prime Minister for 12 (non-consecutive) years. His demeanor is upright  and Morgan manages to convey his position. He has an assistant with him, seated to his left. This is concluded by the fact that the assistant is holding what was called a ‘Gladstone bag’, a small portmanteau suitcase designed by J G Beard in the City of Westminster and named after Gladstone since he was an avid admirer of him. The bag was built over a rigid frame, which can separate into two equal sections. The assistant also seems to be holding the ‘The Globe’ newspaper read by Gladstone.

One thing unusual is that Gladstone is not wearing gloves. During late 19th century there were strict codes of conduct for gloves and their use grew increasingly mandated. They were expected to be used in  specific ways,  but always used.  Even the assistant and the lady to the right is wearing them. Was the artist trying to show that Gladstone wanted to be seen as being one with his people by travelling with common passengers in an Omnibus (a middle class means of transport) and mixing with them? Even the assistant has removed one glove for no partticular reason except maybe in support of  Gladstone.

There is a good sense of movement while showing the passengers in the Omnibus with another Omnibus behind and some passengers seemingly  looking out. 

As Mr. Ghosh remarked, the detailing is excellent. One particular thing struck me in this regard is the metal plate below the window with words that seem faintly inscribed on it. You can make out words like 'passengers' and thought it took realism at another level. The northern side of Piccadilly Cicus can also be seen in the side window indicating the stop is nearing. Some passengers show their readiness to leave the carriage as well.

Though the seating in the Omnibus is cramped, as they typically were, there is a sense of space and perspective with the windows. Apart from the nondescript faces, only Gladstone's face shows a sense of purpose and resolve and I am inclined to think Morgan was commissioned by Gladstone to project a particular image of him. This painting in many ways is also a departure from his usual paintings.

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