Family Pledge

Joseph E. Baker

National Gallery of Art

This is a drawing of a temperance pledge certificate. The image depicts a "Family Pledge" against the use of intoxicating liquors. The drawing is intricately detailed, featuring symbolic imagery and text banners supporting the message of temperance. Cherubic figures hold a banner at the top that reads, "From this fountain of temperance flow many blessings." Vignettes in the drawing depict a nurturing family scene, with themes of "Industry & Contentment," "Health & Happiness," "Honesty, Frugality," and "Filial-Piety & Religion." The central portion of the drawing includes designated text spaces for the names of "Parents" and "Children." The illustration combines Victorian-era aesthetics with moral teachings to convey its message.