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Shanghai Races - studying the form-book
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Shanghai Races - studying the form-book
Two Chinese men studying form at the Shanghai Races in 1939.
1939
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Media ID 23265018
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
Betting Form Gambling Jun19 Racecourse Races Shanghai Spectator Studying
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative black-and-white photograph, two Chinese men intently study the form book at the Shanghai Races in 1939. The image captures the excitement and anticipation of the horse racing scene in Shanghai during that era. The men, dressed in traditional Chinese clothing, lean over a worn-out form book spread out on a table, their expressions focused and determined. The Shanghai Races were a significant social and cultural event in China during the early 20th century. Horse racing was a popular pastime for both the local population and the expatriate community, attracting large crowds to the racecourse. The event was not just about the sport itself but also about socializing, gambling, and betting. The men in the photograph are deeply engrossed in analyzing the form book, likely trying to gain an edge in their betting decisions. The form book, a comprehensive guide to the horses and jockeys participating in the race, was an essential tool for anyone looking to place a bet. The men's intense focus on the information in the book speaks to the importance of the races in their lives and the significance of the event in Shanghai's social landscape. The photograph also offers a glimpse into the traditional Chinese culture that coexisted with the modern influences of the Western world in Shanghai during that time. The men's clothing, with its intricate patterns and colors, contrasts sharply with the racecourse's modern grandstand and the Western-style hats worn by some of the other spectators. The image is a testament to the rich cultural diversity that characterized Shanghai during the first half of the 20th century. Overall, this photograph of two Chinese men studying the form book at the Shanghai Races in 1939 is a captivating snapshot of a bygone era. It invites us to reflect on the role of horse racing in Shanghai's social and cultural history and the enduring appeal of this sport to people from all walks of life.
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