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A CHICKEN-MAN / 1647
Poster Prints from Mary Evans Picture Library
A CHICKEN-MAN / 1647
A chicken man about to pluck a chicken. These tradesman are preachers in the City of London, 1647
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Media ID 614951
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10095850
1647 Chicken Pluck Poultry Preachers Tradesman
EDITORS COMMENTS
A Chicken-Man, 1647: A Moment Before the Plucking Begins This evocative image, titled 'A Chicken-Man' and dated 1647, captures a pivotal moment in the daily life of a tradesman in the bustling City of London during the English Renaissance. The man, dressed in simple yet sturdy clothing, stands before a chicken, poised to pluck it clean. The chicken, with its alert eyes and tensed body, seems to sense the imminent loss of its feathers. The scene is set against a backdrop of wooden crates and barrels, suggesting the presence of a poultry market or shop. The chicken man was an essential figure in the City of London's food trade, providing fresh poultry to the city's residents. His role was not only that of a butcher but also that of a preacher. According to historical records, these chicken men would often deliver their poultry with a moral sermon, using the opportunity to spread religious teachings and engage with their customers. The man in the image appears to be taking a moment to collect his thoughts before beginning his work, perhaps preparing a pious message for his next customer. The presence of a tankard on the table adds an intriguing layer to this historical scene. It is unclear whether the man is taking a break from his work or sharing a drink with a companion. The tankard could also symbolize the social aspect of the chicken man's profession, as he likely interacted with a diverse range of people throughout his day. This image offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of a tradesman in 17th-century London, highlighting the intersection of food production, religion, and community. The chicken man's role as both a provider of sustenance and a spiritual guide underscores the interconnectedness of various aspects of life during this period.
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