Other Prints · 19th century
€ 190
One of a kind: this is the sheet in the photographs. Ships from Langweer, the Netherlands.
Good condition with some offset; vibrant colors, minor aging, intact edges. Later handcoloring.
The image is a hand-colored print from The Graphic, dated March 24, 1877, depicting a scene of men playing the sport of curling at an ice rink in Manchester.
Description of this original antique Print:
- **Setting**: The scene takes place indoors at an ice rink, which is crowded with spectators, both men and women, who are dressed in 19th-century attire. The background includes architectural details such as high windows and a banner hanging above the rink.
- **Players**: Several men, also in period attire including bowler hats, top hats, and coats, are engaged in the game. One man in a red coat is crouched down, possibly in the process of delivering a curling stone.
- **Curling Equipment**: Curling stones, identifiable by their rounded shape and handles, are prominently displayed on the ice. The players are using brooms, an essential tool in curling used to sweep the ice and influence the stone's path.
- **Audience**: A large number of spectators are visible, watching the game with interest. Their attire reflects the fashion of the late 19th century.
### Description of Curling:
Curling is a sport in which players slide stones on a sheet of ice towards a target area segmented into four concentric circles. It is played with two teams, each consisting of four players. The primary objective is to accumulate the highest score by placing stones closest to the center of the target area, known as the "house." Points are scored based on the proximity of the stones to the center, with the team having the stone closest to the center scoring for all stones closer than the opponent's closest stone.
Key elements of curling:
- **Stones**: Made of granite and weighing around 44 pounds, each stone has a handle on top.
- **Brooms**: Used to sweep the ice in front of the moving stone to influence its speed and direction.
- **Delivery**: The player slides the stone down the ice towards the target, usually from a crouched position.
- **Strategy and Skill**: Players must have good aim, strength, and strategic thinking to outmaneuver their opponents.
The print captures a moment in time from the late 19th century when curling was already a popular winter sport, highlighting the game's enduring appeal and the lively atmosphere of the ice rink.
MORE ABOUT THE GRAPHIC NEWSPAPER:
The Graphic was a British weekly illustrated newspaper founded by William Luson Thomas in December 1869. It was renowned for its high-quality illustrations and became one of the most influential papers of its kind during the late 19th century. Here are some key points about The Graphic and its significance during that time:
### Historical Context and Influence:
- **Innovative Illustrations**: The Graphic was noted for its detailed and artistic illustrations, which were considered innovative for the period. These illustrations were created by some of the finest artists of the time and were often hand-colored, as seen in the print you provided.
- **Wide Appeal**: The paper appealed to a broad audience, including the middle and upper classes, due to its sophisticated content and presentation. It provided a visual and narrative account of contemporary events, societal trends, and cultural activities.
- **Global Reach**: Though it was a British publication, The Graphic had a global reach, influencing other illustrated newspapers around the world. Its style and quality set a standard that many other publications aspired to match.
- **Coverage of Events**: The Graphic covered a wide range of topics, including politics, social issues, cultural events, and sports. It was known for its in-depth and empathetic coverage of humanitarian issues and social reform, often bringing attention to matters of public concern.
- **Impact on Art and Media**: The paper played a significant role in the development of visual journalism. Many of its contributors were prominent artists who later became influential figures in the art world. The Graphic's approach to combining art and news influenced future generations of illustrated journalism.
### Significance of the Print:
- **Cultural Documentation**: The print depicting the curling match in Manchester is an example of how The Graphic documented contemporary recreational activities and cultural practices. It provides a historical snapshot of the period, illustrating not only the sport of curling but also the fashion and social dynamics of the time.
- **Educational Value**: Such prints served an educational purpose, informing readers about various aspects of life in different parts of the world. They often accompanied articles that provided context and detailed descriptions, enhancing the reader's understanding and engagement.
Overall, The Graphic was a pioneering publication that left a lasting legacy in the realm of illustrated journalism, combining artistic excellence with informative content to capture the essence of its era.
