Cricket

A Victorian Boyhood — Cricket

This artwork captures a quieter, more contemplative side of Victorian youth: a young boy standing at the boundary of a summer field, cricket bat resting loosely in his hand, as though the game has momentarily paused to allow the world around him to speak.

Perched upon a low branch beside him are two small birds, untroubled by his presence. They are not startled, nor hurried away — a subtle sign of harmony between child and nature. In the distance, a simple set of cricket stumps stands against the soft landscape, suggesting a match played not for applause or record, but for the pleasure of the moment and the passing of the afternoon.

The scene is steeped in Victorian ideals: the belief that time spent outdoors was both morally and physically strengthening; that patience, observation, and restraint were virtues learned as much through cricket as through life itself. Cricket, in this setting, is not merely a sport, but a rhythm — slow, thoughtful, and in tune with the natural world.

The boy’s posture speaks of anticipation rather than urgency. He is not yet batting, nor fielding — he is simply being. Watching. Listening. Absorbing the warmth of the day and the stillness of the countryside. It is a vision of boyhood unencumbered by clocks or consequence, where summer seems endless and dusk arrives gently.

This print forms one half of a companion set, paired with its counterpart Football scene. Together, the two works reflect the twin sporting pillars of Victorian Britain — one energetic and free-running, the other measured and reflective — united by a shared reverence for nature, character, and outdoor life.

Displayed side by side, they tell a fuller story: of a boy who loved the open air, who measured his days not in hours but in overs and goals, and who found joy simply in sport, solitude, and the living landscape around him. A romantic tribute to a lost age — and to a childhood shaped by grass underfoot, sky overhead, and games played for the love of them alone.

Product details:

• You will only pay shipping/postage for 1 item, no matter how many items you purchase.
• Discounts are given for multiple purchases.
• Size: A3, A4, A5
• Single Sided
• Paper: 400gsm premium art stock
• Print quality: Museum-grade, high-resolution
• Finish: Unframed
• Watermark shown in images does NOT appear on the final print
• Carefully packaged for safe delivery

A striking piece of football history — ideal for collectors, historians, and lovers of our national game.

Any issues please contact me at paul@worldvintagecolours.com by clicking the hyperlink and I will get back to you ASAP.