Performing Bear with Pole
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Performing Bear with Pole
Slide showing a picture of two men with a muzzled bear on a lead between them, holding a pole. Part of Box 366. Date: circa 1900
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14177250
© The Boswell Collection, Bexley Heritage Trust / Mary Evans
Bear Lead Muzzled Pole Slides Performing
EDITORS COMMENTS
This late 19th century lantern slide depicts an intriguing moment in the history of animal entertainment. The image shows two men, dressed in Victorian attire, carefully managing a muzzled bear on a lead as they hold a pole between them. The bear, with its powerful build and piercing eyes, seems both curious and slightly apprehensive as it looks towards the camera. The use of a pole suggests that the men may be training or controlling the bear for a performance, perhaps for a traveling circus or a live show. The practice of using muzzles and leads to manage wild animals for entertainment was common during this era, despite the ethical concerns that arise when considering the welfare of the animals. The 1890s were an exciting time for animal acts, as new technologies like lantern slides allowed audiences to see live performances in greater detail and from the comfort of their own homes. This slide, with its crisp detail and vivid colors, offers a glimpse into the past, transporting us back to a time when bears and other wild animals were a popular draw for entertainment-seekers. This historical artifact provides a fascinating window into the world of animal entertainment during the late 19th century, offering a glimpse into the complex relationship between humans and animals during this period. The men in the image, with their determined expressions and careful handling of the bear, remind us of the skill and dedication required to manage such powerful creatures, while the bear itself serves as a reminder of the captivating allure of the wild and the unknown.
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