Work on the Land Potato Planting by William Rothenstein

William Rothenstein's dignified composition celebrates the agricultural mobilisation that sustained Britain through crisis. Men and women labour together across the soil, planting potatoes with methodical purpose, a scene that captures a pivotal moment when domestic food production became a matter of national survival. As enemy submarines decimated merchant convoys, Britain's fields transformed into frontlines of their own. 

Rothenstein documents the Women's Land Army's emergence in 1917, honouring those who stepped into roles traditionally reserved for men, proving that victory required the sacrifice and labour of the entire nation. His restrained style elevates this humble agricultural work into something monumental, recognising that feeding a nation under siege demanded courage equal to any soldier's. The bent figures, the turned earth, the collective effort, all speak to a people refusing to starve, refusing to surrender. 

• This limited-edition lithograph testifies to the Home Front's quiet heroism and the transformative power of necessity. Own a powerful tribute to resilience, gender equality, and the workers who grew Britain's survival.
• This original print, part of the Efforts and Ideals series limited edition of lithographic prints, has agreement to be sold to raise funds for IWM's collection Art department and more copies have been retained in our storage.