The Dorset Yeomen at Agagia, 26 February 1916



This Elizabeth Butler painting shows a charge of the Dorset Yeomanry against Senussi allies of the Turks during fighting in Egypt. When the Yeomanry were 50 yds or so from the Senussi rear-guard they charged with swords drawn. The Bedouin scattered. A pursuit was conducted into the desert, where "considerable numbers" of Senussi were killed with swords. This helped protect the Suez Canal from this Central Powers inspired challenge to British Imperial control in Egypt. Image Courtesy of the Dorset County Council


Elizabeth Butler Artist of Empire Article | Lady Butler Biography


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by Stephen Luscombe