1879 – From Danger Free

This wonderful colour image of a Robin in Winter is entitled “From Danger Free” and is from a Full-Page Colour Supplement to the Illustrated London News, Christmas Number, dated 1879. It is signed in plate by Harrison Weir. The concept of a Colour Supplement for the Christmas Number started with Weir in 1858, when he produced an earlier colour rendition of a Robin singing in Winter, entitled, “The Christmas Carol Singer”. Herbert Ingram, owner and founder of the Illustrated London News was so struck by the piece and seeing a commercial opportunity, offered Weir 150 pounds in order to purchase the copyright. And so the tradition of the Christmas Colour Supplement was born.  This 1879 edition is now quite rare and difficult to find. Currently available in A4, A3 and A2 size options.