Name/TitlePoster

About this objectMade in the 1930s. "Caught by British Fishermen EAT MORE FISH," with a picture of fishing boats in high seas. This and other items were found by the donor in the attic of his fish shop.

Ellie Alexander, research volunteer:
This 1930s paper poster by Kenneth D. Shoesmith was part of a variety of items found by the donor in the attic of his fish shop. Shoesmith was a cadet on HMS Conway and later started working for Royal Mail. He was a self-taught artist who produced scenes of popular tourist sites before creating postcards for Cunard Line cruise ships, and so had various connections to the seafaring industries.

The poster depicts British fishing boats at sea during a storm, emphasizing the difficult conditions fisherman had to endure to provide fish for British citizens and encouraged consumers to purchase more fish. It plays on the theme of patriotism by implying that shoppers should support their local industries and therefore the country’s economy. This was particularly important as the country was experiencing The Great Depression or The Great Slump in the early 1930s, as the cost of post-war reconstruction was further compounded by the 1929 Wall Street Crash and decline of British exports.

Date Made1930's

Medium and MaterialsMade of paper.

Inscription and Marks"Caught by British Fishermen EAT MORE FISH."

MeasurementsDimensions:
385mm x 261mm

Object Typeposter

Object numberSTMEA:A.5007

Copyright LicenceAttribution - Non-commercial (cc)