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Rat catcher with a wooden leg
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Rat catcher with a wooden leg
Rat catcher with a wooden leg.
17th century
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23272314
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Catcher Days Dead Rats Ruff Vermin
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Rat Catcher with a Wooden Leg (17th century) This evocative 17th century image captures the grim yet necessary trade of rat catching, as depicted by a lone figure standing resolutely against a backdrop of darkness. The rat catcher, dressed in the typical attire of the time, dons a wide-brimmed hat adorned with a dead rat, signifying his success in his profession. His ruff collar, a symbol of the era's fashion, adds a stark contrast to the grisly scene before him. In his left hand, he clutches a wooden box, likely used to contain the captured vermin, while his right hand holds a flag, a signal to alert property owners of his presence. A sword hangs at his side, a reminder of the potential danger that comes with his occupation. Despite the gruesome nature of his work, the rat catcher's wooden leg does not deter him from carrying out his duties. The wooden limb, a common replacement for amputated limbs during this period, is a testament to the resilience and determination of those who lived during the 17th century. The presence of rats and other vermin was a constant threat to the health and well-being of communities during this time. The rat catcher played a crucial role in protecting the public from the spread of diseases, making him an essential figure in the daily life of the 17th century. This haunting yet intriguing photograph offers a glimpse into the past, providing a fascinating insight into the lives of those who worked in the often overlooked yet vital trade of rat catching.
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