Chestnut Sunday

© Estate of Edward Bawden

This poster advertises Chestnut Sunday in Bushy Park in southwest London. Since Victorian times the annual event celebrates, on the Sunday closest to the 11th May, the blossom of the horse chestnut trees planted over 300 years ago in the Avenue. There is a parade down the Avenue and many other activities. The poster dates from 1936 but the event continues today. This original lithograph is by Edward Bawden (1903-1989), an English painter, illustrator and graphic artist, a contemporary of Eric Ravilious. The design incorporates a chestnut tree, blossom, leaf and a bee on one side and practical access information for the visitor on the other. It was published by London Transport, one of many designs which Edward Bawden produced for them.

Ref: 2019.260

  • Maker Edward Bawden
  • Material Paper and ink
  • Object Type Art
  • Year 1936
  • Collection Number 2019.26