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The hop merchant from Kent (England) and the speaker at Optics
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The hop merchant from Kent (England) and the speaker at Optics
MMM5477349 The hop merchant from Kent (England) and the speaker at Optics; National Maritime Museum, London, UK; (add.info.: The hop merchant from Kent (England) and the speaker of optics. Satirical illustration by Isaak Cruikshank (1756-1811), based on the cartoon by George Woodward (1765-1809), and describes the misinterpretation of a merchant (a typical John Bull figure), who confused a science lesson on optics with hop sticks (magic hop stick), on the speaker's table, there is a lantern, a telescope, and a A pair of little binoculars, this image mocks both the ignorance of the Provincials and the increase in the number of scientific speakers who visited the English provinces at the beginning of the 19th century. Etching in colors from 1809.); © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Media ID 38280230
© © National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London / Bridgeman Images
Belittling Derides Derision Etching Foolery Laugh Laughing Laughter Make Fun Of Mockery Ridicule Scientists Scoff Smile Educating Inhabitant
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This satirical illustration by Isaak Cruikshank captures a humorous moment of misunderstanding between a hop merchant from Kent and a speaker on optics in 19th century England. The image, based on a cartoon by George Woodward, depicts the merchant mistaking scientific instruments for "hop sticks" (magic hop stick), showcasing the ignorance of provincial individuals towards new scientific concepts.
In the scene, we see a typical John Bull figure surrounded by a lantern, telescope, and binoculars on the speaker's table. This misinterpretation not only highlights the confusion of the merchant but also pokes fun at the increasing number of scientific speakers visiting English provinces during that time.
The vibrant colors and detailed etching bring this comedic moment to life, offering a glimpse into societal attitudes towards science and education in early 19th century England. Through clever satire and exaggerated characters, Cruikshank captures both the charm and folly of this cultural exchange.
This print serves as a reminder of how perceptions can be skewed when encountering unfamiliar ideas or technologies, making it a fascinating piece that reflects both historical context and human nature.
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