Image Licensing : The Bullers Arms inn sign, The Square, Landrake, Cornwall. 1962

EDITORS COMMENTS

This print from 1962 showcases the iconic inn sign of The Bullers Arms in Landrake, Cornwall. Standing proudly in The Square, this historic establishment has long been a beloved gathering place for locals and visitors alike. The focal point of the image is undoubtedly the inn sign itself, adorned with a Latin inscription that reads "Aquila non capit muscas" - meaning "The eagle does not catch flies". This ancient proverb holds deep symbolism as it juxtaposes the majestic nature of eagles with the insignificance of flies. In Roman times, eagles were revered creatures while flies were seen as bothersome pests. Thus, this phrase was used to convey that individuals of high rank or importance did not waste their time on trivial matters. Photographed by Charles Woolf, this image beautifully captures both the historical significance and artistic charm of The Bullers Arms inn sign. It serves as a reminder of how language can encapsulate wisdom across generations. As we gaze upon this snapshot frozen in time, we are transported back to an era when Cornish pubs like The Bullers Arms played an integral role in community life. A testament to tradition and heritage, this photograph invites us to appreciate the rich tapestry woven by places such as these within our cultural landscape.