Private Smith (late Shinio, the popular juggler) appreciably lowers the protective value of his section's shrapnel helmets by practising his celebrated plate and basin spinning act. Originally an amateur artist, Bairnsfather's cockney humour displayed in his view of the Front (he served in the Royal Warwickshire Regiment until December 1916) was popular. He became well-known through his work for the Tatler and the Bystander during this period.