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Bear Baiting in Saxon Times, illustration from Hutchinsons Story of the British Nation, c. 1920 (litho)
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Bear Baiting in Saxon Times, illustration from Hutchinsons Story of the British Nation, c. 1920 (litho)
STC292414 Bear Baiting in Saxon Times, illustration from Hutchinsons Story of the British Nation, c.1920 (litho) by Woodville, Richard Caton II (1856-1927) (after); Private Collection; The Stapleton Collection
Media ID 25461584
© The Stapleton Collection / Bridgeman Images
Amusement Anecdote Anglo Saxon Anglo Saxons Attacker Bear Baiting Betting Chain Chained Cruel Cruelty Enthroned Fierce Jackals Pastime She Wolf Spectacle Spectator Taunting Wild Animals Wilds Wolf Wolves Brawl Brawling Fighting Conflict News Item
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This black and white lithograph, titled "Bear Baiting in Saxon Times" takes us back to a dark era of British history. Created by Richard Caton Woodville II in 1920 as an illustration for Hutchinson's Story of the British Nation, it depicts a brutal spectacle that was once considered entertainment. In this scene, we witness the cruelty inflicted upon animals for the amusement of spectators. A chained bear is viciously attacked by dogs while onlookers taunt and bet on its fate. The ruler sits enthroned, seemingly indifferent to the suffering unfolding before them. The image captures the fierce battle between wild animals - wolves and bears - as they confront each other in a clash of teeth and claws. It serves as a reminder of our pastime's darker side, where animal baiting was seen as sport among Anglo-Saxons. As we observe this engraving from a private collection known as The Stapleton Collection, we cannot help but feel both repulsed by the cruelty depicted and intrigued by its historical significance. It offers insight into Britain's cultural heritage and sheds light on how attitudes towards wildlife have evolved over time. Let this image serve as a testament to our progress in treating animals with compassion and respect, reminding us never to forget our past mistakes while striving for a more humane future.
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