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Transporting Jumbo the African elephant to America, 1882
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Transporting Jumbo the African elephant to America, 1882
Transporting Jumbo the African elephant to America, 1882. Jumbo was a large African elephant sold by London Zoo in 1882 to the American showman Phineas Taylor Barnum (1810-1891) for his circus, which became known as the Greatest Show on Earth. Here he is seen in his crate being taken down the Thames and put on board the Assyrian Monarch for the voyage across the Atlantic. From Le Voleur. (Paris, 1882)
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 14848436
© Ann Ronan Picture Library / Heritage-Images
African Elephant Animal Welfare Barge Barnum Circus Crane Cranes Crate Cruelty Elephant Exploitation Lifting Loading Phineas Taylor Phineas Taylor Barnum Pt Barnum Ann Ronan Pictures Wood Engraving
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a significant moment in history - the transportation of Jumbo the African elephant to America in 1882. Jumbo, a magnificent creature, was sold by London Zoo to Phineas Taylor Barnum, an American showman renowned for his circus known as the Greatest Show on Earth. In this image, we witness Jumbo's journey down the iconic River Thames. Enclosed within a crate, he is carefully loaded onto the Assyrian Monarch ship bound for America. The scene is filled with symbolism and emotions - from the concept of exploitation and cruelty associated with animal entertainment to questions about animal welfare during that era. The monochrome aesthetic adds a timeless quality to this nineteenth-century photograph. It serves as a reminder of how far our understanding and treatment of animals have evolved since then. This print not only documents an extraordinary event but also prompts us to reflect on our relationship with nature and wildlife. As we gaze upon this remarkable piece captured by an unknown creator, we are transported back in time when grand spectacles like circuses fascinated audiences worldwide. It reminds us of Phineas Taylor Barnum's legacy as an entertainer who captivated hearts through larger-than-life attractions such as Jumbo. This print from Heritage Images allows us to appreciate both its historical significance and artistic beauty while contemplating important themes surrounding animal rights and human fascination with exotic creatures.
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