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Bear and Monkey, 13th century, (1833)
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Bear and Monkey, 13th century, (1833)
Bear and Monkey, 13th century, (1833). Dancing bears and monkeys would peform in the public streets. Illustration after a book of prayers in the Harleian Collection of the British Library. An engraving from The Sports and Pastimes of the people of England, by Joseph Strutt, (London, 1833)
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Media ID 14912816
© The Print Collector / Heritage-Images
Bear Cruel Cruelty Joseph Strutt Monkey Sideshow Strutt Print Collector4 Thirteenth Century
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print takes us back to the 13th century in England, capturing a scene of entertainment that was once common on the streets. The image depicts a bear and monkey performing together, showcasing their talents for an enthralled audience. This engraving is based on an illustration found in a book of prayers from the Harleian Collection of the British Library. During this medieval period, dancing bears and monkeys were often seen as sources of amusement for the public. They would entertain crowds with their tricks and stunts, providing a glimpse into the lighter side of life amidst harsher times. However, behind this seemingly innocent spectacle lies a darker reality. The concept of cruelty towards animals becomes apparent when we consider how these creatures were trained to perform against their natural instincts. The monochrome aesthetic adds to the sense of nostalgia surrounding this image, transporting us back to 19th-century England when Joseph Strutt documented various sports and pastimes prevalent at that time. As we admire this historical snapshot captured by an unknown creator, let it serve as a reminder not only of our fascination with medieval entertainment but also our evolving understanding and compassion towards animals throughout history.
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