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"Crossing the Line" (colour photo)
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"Crossing the Line" (colour photo)
8668596 "Crossing the Line" (colour photo) by English Photographer, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: "Crossing the Line." One of the most humorous of all naval customs is the Ceremony of "Crossing the Line, " which is observed when a ship is crossing the Equator. Its origin is lost in obscurity, but it may possibly be traced to classical mythology. The sea-god, Father Neptune, a venerable, bearded figure, takes the deck supported by members of the crew clumsily disguised as his courtiers. He proceeds to conduct a mock trial, and those proved not to have crossed the Equator before are then subjected to the ritual of being shaved with a huge dummy razor. The ceremony is concluded by throwing the victim into a large bath of water infested by "sea-dogs" or "bears." Illustration for one of a set of 50 cigarette cards on the subject of Interesting Customs and Traditions of the Navy, Army and Airforce issued by Lambert & Butler in 1939.); © Look and Learn
Media ID 38290536
© © Look and Learn / Bridgeman Images
Bear Bears Black Bear Courtier Courtiers Disguise Disguised Equator Rite Rites And Ceremonies General Knowledge Knowing
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Crossing the Line
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captures a whimsical naval tradition that dates back centuries. In this colourful print by an English Photographer from the 20th century, we see the humorous Ceremony of "Crossing the Line" taking place on board a ship crossing the Equator. The scene depicts Father Neptune, a sea-god figure with a beard, presiding over a mock trial where crew members are subjected to silly rituals if they have not crossed the Equator before.
The origins of this ceremony are shrouded in mystery, possibly stemming from classical mythology. Crew members disguised as Neptune's courtiers play along with the charade as they shave unsuspecting victims with a giant dummy razor and throw them into water infested with "sea-dogs" or "bears." This lighthearted yet symbolic ritual serves as a rite of passage for sailors crossing into new territories.
This print is part of a set of cigarette cards on Interesting Customs and Traditions of the Navy, Army and Airforce issued in 1939. It offers viewers a glimpse into maritime folklore and camaraderie among seafarers during long voyages at sea. The vibrant colours and detailed composition bring to life this unique naval tradition that continues to be celebrated today.
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