260 'THE KNIFE GRINDER'
By James Charles (1851-1906)

It can be heard from all over the village, the scraping and swishing of the steel against the knife grinder's stone wheel. Fascinated by the flying sparks, the two children are trans- fixed with admiration. Adding further to the cacophony of sound, the squeaking of the unoiled axle and the creaking of the old wooden frame, all go into creating an unmelodic symphony. This is more often referred to as a "horrendous din" by the less sympathetic.

But all children loved to experience the grating and grinding as such a contrast to the peace which usually exists in a country village. For such an craftsman he is sadly no more these days. There was always great temptation to rush into the house to persuade a frequently reluctant mother to lend the bluntest knives for restoration. For only two-pence a big knife and a penny for small, the entertainment was affordable and the result just so satisfying.

Entranced with his work, the little boy might day-dream that the long carving knife was in fact a jewelled dagger to wear proudly at the side of his shining armour. - Only last night he had read about King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table. Those long two-handed swords must have taken some sharpening let alone lifting! And he dwells particularly the story about the Lady of the Lake and Excalibur, -the memorable feat about the sword buried in the rock that only the rightful King could remove.

In her turn, captivated by the careful honing of bright steel, the little girl might be inspired by other thoughts far away from where she stands. The artist has captured the glazed stare of the wheel going round. Maybe she is watching the wheels of a carriage trundling along transporting a beautiful princess to her castle?

The old man plies away in deep concentration in case his hand slipped. Maybe he spins a yarn or three to open-mouthed innocents. All children would respect the mystery of this quiet man. His red kerchief would be used often to mop his brow, for this was a hot task sitting near.

The folded umbrella is strapped in readiness for a downpour, and the fire in the small brazier has melted the tin for lining the large teapot in the little girls hand. For this man is so able to mend anything metal. The boy's hoop probably needs soldering together, following the usual rough treatment.

James Charles exhibited at the R.A. 1875-1906, the National Gallery and Paris Salon. He specialised in rustic culture and landscape, painting in an unpretentious manner scenes from country life in England.