Barred Out (29th May) (1896) by Ralph Hedley (1848-1913), Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Oil on canvas
Given by Colonel TA Higginbottom, 1933
Schoolchildren are barring the teacher from the classroom until the holidays for the next year have been agreed. This was a North-East Custom which took place on the 29th of May. Hedley has shown children of many different ages being taught together in a shabby Country schoolroom. Although some of the children’s Clothes are patched, they seem happy and healthy. A writing slate lies on the floor. Children used a state pencil, wiping the slate clean when they had finished.
