Trafalgar Square

Joseph Hecht's engraving of Trafalgar Square focuses on Nelson's Column. The National Service poster at its base, surrounded by the lion statues, declares 'It's up to YOU'.

The National Gallery is clearly visible in the background, as are the square's statues: Sir Henry Havelock on the left and King George IV on the right. This is one of twelve engravings Hecht made in London during the Second World War, which were acquired by the Museum of London in 1987. Other views by the artist include Downing Street, Regent's Park, Tower Bridge and Westminster.

Hecht was a Polish-born artist who studied in Krakow for five years from 1909. After spending some years in Norway he moved to Paris, where he lived until the outbreak of the war.