Auld lang syne

Category

Library Item

Item no

17690

Title

Auld lang syne

Description

Two men shake hands over a drink in a tavern. They are wearing frockcoats, cravats and hats, including a bonnet with a tartan band. A dog lies on the floor at their feet and in the background other men can be seen sitting talking. A lady with a bonnet and shawl is serving beer from a jug.

Artist / maker

Wright, J M

Engraver

J Rogers

Date

1840

Size

19 x 12.5 cm

Type

Engraving

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

This image is an illustration of a poem written by Robert Burns. View the text of Auld Lang Syne

Robert Burns is Scotland's national poet. He was born on the 25th January 1759 in Alloway, Ayrshire. He was the son of a tenant farmer and was brought up working the land, but like many sons of Scottish farmers received a good education. In 1786 he published a volume of his poetry called Poems Chiefly in the Scottish Dialect. The book was an immediate success and was the start of his transformation into a national hero. He continued to write poetry and songs until he died on the 21st July 1796 aged just 37. Every year, on the anniversary of his birth, thousands of Scots at home and abroad gather together to celebrate the poet's life and works by holding Burns Suppers.

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Related subjects

Animals > Mammals > Dogs

Clothing and dress > Accessories > Hats

People > Adults > Men

Sport and leisure > Eating and drinking facilities > Public houses

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