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The Prize Fight, 1814 and 1914
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The Prize Fight, 1814 and 1914
Depictions of the Prize Fight, of 1814 (above) and of 1914 (below). In the earlier version there is as much fighting in the crowd as there is in the boxing ring. Date: July 1914
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14122200
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
1814 Audience Bored Boredom Boxer Boxers Boxing Camera Cameraman Cameramen Cameras Cinematography Excited Excitement Fight Fists Indoor Prize Referee Ring Spectators Umpire Version Ringside
EDITORS COMMENTS
Two Epochs of Boxing: A Comparative Study of The Prize Fight, 1814 and 1814 (Above: The Prize Fight, 1814; Below: The Prize Fight, 1914) The Prize Fight, an iconic symbol of the evolution of boxing as a sport, has captivated audiences for centuries. In this intriguing comparison, we delve into two distinct depictions of the same event, separated by a century. The image above, dated 1814, portrays the raw and chaotic energy of a prize fight in its infancy. The boxing ring is the focal point, yet the crowd's frenzy is as palpable as the blows exchanged between the two boxers. Men, both in the ring and in the crowd, are engrossed in the moment, their fists clenched in excitement or in readiness for a brawl. The dimly lit scene, captured by early photographic techniques, adds to the sense of intensity and danger. Conversely, the image below, also titled The Prize Fight, 1914, presents a stark contrast. The boxing ring is now the undisputed center of attention, with the referee and umpire maintaining order amidst the controlled chaos. The crowd, though still excited, is more orderly, their attention focused on the action in the ring. The introduction of cinematography and the use of cameras has transformed the way the event is documented, with cameramen capturing every moment from ringside. The indoor setting and the improved lighting further enhance the spectacle, making it a more refined and visually appealing representation of the sport. This side-by-side comparison offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of boxing, revealing how the sport has evolved from its chaotic and violent origins to the regulated and spectacle-driven event it is today. The Prize Fight, 1814 and 1914, serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of the sport and the advancements in technology that have shaped its portrayal.
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