Home > Popular Themes > Mythical Beasts
Water closet, 1556
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Heritage Images
Water closet, 1556
Water Closet, 1556. A man sitting on a toilet being menaced by a demonic creature. From The Metamorphosis of Ajax by Sir John Harrington. Harrington installed a water closet in his house near Bath in 1589, and recommended it should be flushed once a day
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14836068
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
Afraid Alarm Demonic Elizabethan Fear Frighten Frightened Frightening Harrington Hygiene Menacing Privy Sanitation Scared Sir John Startled Toilet Ann Ronan Pictures Metaphor Mythical Beast Mythical Creature Water Closet
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photo print, titled "Water Closet, 1556" takes us back to the intriguing world of Elizabethan England. The image portrays a man sitting on a toilet, seemingly caught off guard by the presence of a menacing demonic creature lurking in the shadows. This unique artwork is derived from Sir John Harrington's renowned book, The Metamorphosis of Ajax. In this composition, fear and mythology intertwine as the mythical beast symbolizes both physical and metaphorical threats that may arise unexpectedly in one's life. It serves as a reminder of how vulnerability can be heightened when we are least prepared or aware. Beyond its artistic value, this print sheds light on an essential aspect of daily life during the sixteenth century – sanitation and hygiene. Sir John Harrington himself installed one of these innovative water closets near Bath in 1589 and even recommended flushing it once a day for optimal cleanliness. The monochrome aesthetic adds depth to the image while emphasizing its historical significance. The startled expression on the man's face captures his genuine alarm at encountering such an otherworldly creature within his private space. Ann Ronan Pictures has beautifully preserved this rare depiction from centuries past, allowing us to appreciate not only its artistic merit but also gain insights into societal norms surrounding health practices during that era.
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.
