Basil Smith: Milk Wagon

Artist: Basil Smith
1925 -
Nationality: British
Artwork Year: 1987
Image Size: 6 by 7 inches
Overall Size: 9 by 10 inches
Medium: Water Color on Hot Press Illustration Board

The sound of horses' hooves breaking the stillness of dawn marked an era of progress and service. It was the time of horse-drawn carriages of every shape and size, the familiar Milk Wagon prominent among them. This particular model was part of a trend toward specialization of vehicles, when manufacturers began to customize their product for particular uses. Built low to the ground, with a standing well for driving, and sliding side doors, the Milk Wagon was obviously well-suited to its loading and unloading functions. However, driving was a bit awkward and often the milkman could be seen leading his horse by hand. Both learned their routes quickly, as the delivery of bottled milk and fresh cream earned them smiles and waves from friendly customers. Sometimes the horses would receive a special treat or a pat on the nose from other early-risers so that they learned their routes just that much sooner. New drivers often found they didn't even need a map when their steeds had served before them. Stories have been told of sturdy dairy horses who refused to budge lest their drivers forget a steady customer's morning milk delivery. These clean white dairy wagons were a part of life in cities and towns throughout the world before the automobile. And even into the late 1950's, the milkman's horse-drawn wagon was a welcome sight in the early morning mist.

This artwork was originally published on the Fleetwood® First Day Cover for U.S. 5¢ Milk Wagon stamp issued on September 25, 1987.

Artwork Copyright © 1987 Unicover Corporation. All Rights Reserved under United States and international copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, transmit, or otherwise exploit the Artwork in any way. Images of the Artwork may be watermarked and/or digitally watermarked. Any sale of the physical original does not include or convey the Copyright or any right comprised in the copyright.

Our Stock Number (SKU): XB11214

US$ Price: $975.00

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