Firewomen Resting, London Blitz by Enid Dreyfus, writing ink on paper

This sketch depicts firewomen in the Auxiliary Fire Service (AFS) resting at their quarters, unable to return home due to air raids. Their duties included transportation, administration and operating switchboards.

Enid Dreyfus (née Abrahams - her name at the time of making this work), who studied at the Royal Academy Schools, regularly exhibited at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibitions and with the New English Art Club. From 1939 she worked as an AFS driver as well as practising as an artist. She sketched from life during her shifts and was one of the few women artists whose work was displayed at Firemen Artists’ exhibitions, which became increasingly popular during the early years of the war. Purchased in 1992. Copyright: the artist's estate / RAF Museum.