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Fine Art Print : Diving for sponges on the coast of Syria, 1862. Creator: Unknown

Diving for sponges on the coast of Syria, 1862. Creator: Unknown



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Diving for sponges on the coast of Syria, 1862. Creator: Unknown

Diving for sponges on the coast of Syria, 1862. Latakia sponges are known and appreciated in England, but very few of the superior quality ever reach this country, chiefly from the great demand for this useful appendage to the toilet amongst the ladies of the various hareems, whose constant visits to the hummums, or baths, bring the sponge into daily requisition...The natives employed in these fisheries are a peculiar people, mostly inhabiting the small island of Ruad, not far from the Gulf of Antioch. Of an almost amphibious nature, they are from their infancy exposed to the hardships and privations of fishers generally...A hard and a dangerous life do these poor divers lead, and one which at any moment exposes them to instant death. Yet they are a robust and cheerful people, always full of mirth and frolic. The most astonishing thing about them is the wonderful length of time they can remain under water. Sometimes the dive is so protracted, owing to falling upon a good field of sponges, that when the poor fellows reach the surface again they are utterly exhausted, and the blood gushes from their mouths, noses, eyes, and even ears'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862

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Media ID 35127233

© The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Danger Dangerous Dhow Diver Divers Diving Felucca Feluccas Middle Eastern Peril Sailboats Sailing Boats Sponge Swimmer Swimmers Swimming Syria Typical Dhows Latakia Sponges


A2 (42x59cm) Fine Art Print

Discover the rich history and allure of the Mediterranean Sea with our exquisite Fine Art Print from Media Storehouse. This captivating image, sourced from Heritage Images, transports you back in time to 1862, where divers are seen meticulously collecting sponges along the Syrian coast. The crystal-clear waters and vibrant underwater life create a breathtaking scene. A rare find, this print showcases the value and appreciation for Latakia sponges in England during that era. Add a touch of history and artistry to your home or office with this stunning, unknown masterpiece.

Our Fine Art Prints are printed on 100% acid free, PH neutral paper with archival properties. This printing method is used by museums and art collections to exhibit photographs and art reproductions. Hahnemühle certified studio for digital fine art printing. Printed on 308gsm Photo Rag Paper.

Our fine art prints are high-quality prints made using a paper called Photo Rag. This 100% cotton rag fibre paper is known for its exceptional image sharpness, rich colors, and high level of detail, making it a popular choice for professional photographers and artists. Photo rag paper is our clear recommendation for a fine art paper print. If you can afford to spend more on a higher quality paper, then Photo Rag is our clear recommendation for a fine art paper print.

Estimated Image Size (if not cropped) is 59.4cm x 40.3cm (23.4" x 15.9")

Estimated Product Size is 59.4cm x 42cm (23.4" x 16.5")

These are individually made so all sizes are approximate

Artwork printed orientated as per the preview above, with landscape (horizontal) orientation to match the source image.


FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS

> Animals > Mammals > Muridae > Water Mouse

> Arts > Artists > S > Syrian Syrian

> Arts > Landscape paintings > Coastal landscapes > Nature-inspired artwork

> Arts > Still life artwork > Still life art > Nature-inspired artwork

> Arts > Still life artwork > Nature-inspired art

> Arts > Portraits > Still life artwork > Nature-inspired artwork

> Arts > Realistic drawings > Still life artwork > Fine art

> Asia > East Timor > Related Images

> Asia > Syria > Latakia

> Asia > Syria > Related Images


Diving for Sponges on the Coast of Syria, 1862

EDITORS COMMENTS
is an intriguing and evocative photograph that transports us back in time to the Mediterranean coast of Syria during the mid-19th century. The image captures a group of Syrian divers, dressed in traditional attire, as they delve deep into the crystal-clear waters in search of valuable sponges. At the time, Syria was a significant source of high-quality sponges, which were highly sought after in Europe, particularly in England. These sponges were highly valued for their use in personal hygiene, especially among the women of the harems, who visited the public baths, or hummums, on a daily basis. The divers in this photograph are primarily from the small island of Ruad, located near the Gulf of Antioch. These people were known for their amphibious nature, having been exposed to the harsh conditions of fishing from a young age. Their lives were characterized by hardships and danger, as they faced the constant risk of drowning with every dive. Despite the challenges and perils of their profession, these divers were a robust and cheerful people, always full of mirth and frolic. The most remarkable aspect of their lives was their ability to remain underwater for extended periods, sometimes for so long that upon resurfacing, they would be left utterly exhausted, with blood gushing from their mouths, noses, eyes, and even ears. This photograph, taken from the Illustrated London News in 1862, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these intrepid divers and the valuable industry that sustained them. It is a poignant reminder of the rich cultural and historical heritage that exists along the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.

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