Views of Europe · 19th century
€ 1 400
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Repaired: Restored areas at the top center edge of the 5th and 6th sheets. Occasional small tears and edge wear (primarily on the first sheet), somewhat dusty, slightly spotted and browned.
A complete series of six old aquatint etchings created by C. R. Stock after S. H. Alken, published around 1830 in London by W. C. Lee.
C.R. Stock, a British artist from the 19th century, was known for creating aquatint engravings. He produced a series depicting cockfights, likely after the works of Henry Alken, a renowned British artist known for his sporting and animal-themed illustrations. Alken's work often captured the essence of sports, hunting, and rural life, making him a prominent figure in 19th-century British art.
The series depicts the progression of a cockfight, a competitive event that, for the roosters involved, is hardly considered a sport or game.
Cockfighting in the 19th century was a prevalent form of entertainment, although it drew criticism due to its animal cruelty. These events involved trained roosters pitted against each other in a fight, often to the death. While it was a popular pastime in various cultures, it faced opposition from animal rights activists, resulting in eventual bans and regulations in many countries. Despite the controversy, it remained a part of some cultures' traditions and histories, reflecting the diverse views on animal welfare and entertainment.
