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The Obby Oss, South Quay, Padstow, Cornwall. 1966
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Royal Cornwall Museum
The Obby Oss, South Quay, Padstow, Cornwall. 1966
The May Day Obby Oss festival with the parade moving through the town. The Obby Oss is an integral part of the May Day celebrations in Padstow. Each year, on the 1st May, the town is decorated in greenery and the Oss (horse) parades the streets, followed by a teaser who holds a padded bat. The procession is accompanied by accordions, drums and singing. The fearsome Oss wears a large mask and swirling skirts under which he tries to catch young maids. Photographer: Charles Woolf
Royal Cornwall Museum is the UK's Greatest Museum For Cornish Life & Culture
TRURI : PADos.53h
Media ID 15295044
© RIC, photographer Charles Woolf
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the essence of the May Day Obby Oss festival in Padstow, Cornwall, back in 1966. The image showcases the lively parade as it makes its way through South Quay. The Obby Oss festival is a cherished tradition that takes place annually on May 1st in Padstow. As depicted in this photograph, the town is adorned with vibrant greenery to mark the occasion. Leading the procession is the fearsome Obby Oss, an intricately designed horse figure donning a large mask and swirling skirts. Accompanied by accordion music, drums beating rhythmically, and joyous singing filling the air, this spirited celebration truly comes alive. Following closely behind the Oss is a teaser wielding a padded bat – adding an element of excitement to proceedings. One cannot help but be captivated by this snapshot frozen in time; it encapsulates both cultural heritage and communal revelry. Photographer Charles Woolf has skillfully captured not only an event but also a moment filled with anticipation and merriment. As we gaze upon this historical gem from Royal Cornwall Museum's collection, we are reminded of how traditions like these connect us to our past while fostering unity within communities. This print serves as a testament to Padstow's enduring spirit and their commitment to preserving age-old customs for generations to come.
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