Fine Art Print : Cockfighting (John Kay)
Fine Art Prints from Mary Evans Picture Library
Cockfighting (John Kay)
A cockfight in Edinburgh Thus we poor Cocks exert our Skill & Brav ry For idle Gulls and Kites that trade in Knav ry Date: 1785
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14272413
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1785 Cockfighting Cocks Edinburgh Gulls Idle Kites Poor Skill Cockfight
A2 (42x59cm) Fine Art Print
Experience the raw energy and intrigue of 18th-century Scotland with our Fine Art Print of 'Cockfighting (John Kay)' from the Media Storehouse collection, sourced from Mary Evans Prints Online. This captivating image, dated 1785, invites you to witness the skill and bravery of the cockfighters as they engage in their age-old tradition, surrounded by onlookers. Delve into the past and add a touch of history to your home or office decor. This rights-managed print is a must-have for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
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 42cm x 49.4cm (16.5" x 19.4")
Estimated Product Size is 42cm x 59.4cm (16.5" x 23.4")
These are individually made so all sizes are approximate
Artwork printed orientated as per the preview above, with portrait (vertical) orientation to match the source image.
EDITORS COMMENTS
John Kay's captivating print, "A cockfight in Edinburgh: Thus we poor Cocks exert our Skill & Bravury," offers a glimpse into the historical pastime of cockfighting during the late 18th century. The image, dated 1785, depicts a crowded scene of spectators gathered around a makeshift cockpit, their faces etched with anticipation and excitement. Two roosters, poised and ready, face each other with determination, their spurs glinting in the sunlight. The print's title, "Thus we poor Cocks exert our Skill & Bravury," underscores the notion that the birds were considered to be the true participants in this brutal sport. The term "poor Cocks" reflects the understanding that the birds were often bred, trained, and raised specifically for this purpose, with their owners investing time, resources, and emotion into their animals. The onlookers, depicted as "idle Gulls and Kites that trade in Knavry," represent the spectators who attended these events for entertainment. The use of the derogatory terms "gulls" and "kites" suggests a level of disdain for those who attended these events, perhaps due to the perceived immorality or cruelty of the sport. Despite the negative connotations, cockfighting was a popular pastime during this time period, with many considering it to be a display of skill and bravery. The print serves as a fascinating window into the historical context of this controversial practice, offering insights into the social and cultural norms of the time. It is important to note that this print is a historical artifact and does not promote or condone the practice of cockfighting, which is now considered animal cruelty and is illegal in many parts of the world.
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