Home > Popular Themes > Mythical Beasts
Popular Superstitions: Sneezing (colour litho)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
Popular Superstitions: Sneezing (colour litho)
8668705 Popular Superstitions: Sneezing (colour litho) by English School, (20th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: Sneezing. In the 17th Century it was customary for an Englishman to salute a sneeze by raising his hat, and to-day most of us are familiar with the saying "God bless you" on such occasions. The custom is supposed to have originated from a belief that the "soul" or "self" sometimes leaves the earthly body, its going and returning being marked by sneezes. In Germany there still exists a quaint bit of country lore to the effect that unfortunate enchanted sprites hide under bridges and sneeze loudly, in the hope that a pious passer-by may say "God bless you" and thus break the spell. This superstition gained ground during the Great Plague owing to the fact that it was accompanied by a prevalence of sneezing. Illustration for one of a set of 25 cigarette cards on the subject of Popular Superstitions issued by Godfrey Phillips in 1930.); © Look and Learn
Media ID 38485102
© © Look and Learn / Bridgeman Images
Belief Dictum Fantastic Animal Fantastic Animals Fantastic Creature Fantastic Creatures Ghost Hope Hopeful Maxim Mythical Animal Mythical Beast Mythical Creature Mythical Creatures Proverbe Returning Soul Souls Spirit Spirits Supersition Superstition Superstitious 17th Centuries General Knowledge Knowing
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> English School
> Popular Themes
> Mythical Beasts
EDITORS COMMENTS
This fascinating colour lithograph print captures the superstition surrounding sneezing in the 17th century, depicting an Englishman raising his hat to salute a sneeze. The saying "God bless you" is still commonly used today in response to someone sneezing, stemming from the belief that the soul or self momentarily leaves the body during a sneeze.
The image also highlights a German folklore where enchanted sprites hide under bridges and loudly sneeze, hoping for a passer-by to say "God bless you" and break their spell. This superstition gained popularity during the Great Plague due to the widespread occurrence of sneezing at that time.
Published as part of a set of 25 cigarette cards on Popular Superstitions by Godfrey Phillips in 1930, this print offers insight into historical beliefs and customs surrounding everyday occurrences like sneezing. It serves as a reminder of how superstitions have shaped cultural practices throughout history, shedding light on our ancestors' understanding of life and death.
This artwork invites viewers to reflect on ancient traditions and folklore while appreciating the intricate details captured by the English School artist. It serves as a window into past beliefs and rituals that continue to influence modern-day customs around sneezing.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
