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Christmas on Board a British Battleship, 1894
Poster Prints from Mary Evans Picture Library
Christmas on Board a British Battleship, 1894
Engraving showing the scene on the deck of a Royal Navy Warship in the Mediterranean, at Christmas. The women have come onto the warship to sell figs, nuts, apples, shellfish and other delicacies to the crew. They were known as bumboat women due to the nature of their trading craft; the character Buttercup in the opera HMS Pinafore being the most famous of these peddlars. The warships mascot, Bruin the bear, is seen taking an interest in proceedings; prior to obtaining some of the wares
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Media ID 4384161
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10216945
1894 Battle Ship Bear Character Craft Crew Deck Delicacies Figs Interest Mascot Mediterranean Nuts Obtaining Opera Prior Proceedings Sell Shell Fish Taking Trading War Ship Wares
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A Festive Scene on Board a British Battleship in the Mediterranean, 1894: An Engraving Capturing the Spirit of Christmas at Sea This evocative engraving, dating back to 1894, transports us to the deck of a Royal Navy warship in the Mediterranean during the holiday season. The tranquil waters of the Mediterranean provide a striking backdrop to the bustling scene unfolding on the warship's deck. The women, dressed in colorful attire, have come aboard to sell their wares to the crew, offering a variety of delicacies including figs, nuts, apples, shellfish, and other seasonal treats. Known as 'bumboat women,' these traders played an essential role in providing essential supplies to the crew, particularly during long voyages. The character of Buttercup from the popular opera HMS Pinafore is a famous representation of these peddlers. In this scene, the warship's mascot, Bruin the bear, is seen taking an interest in the proceedings, adding a touch of whimsy to the historical tableau. The image captures the spirit of Christmas at sea, with the crew enjoying a brief respite from their duties, engaging with the women, and partaking in the festive offerings. This engraving, sourced from Mary Evans Prints Online, offers a unique glimpse into the past, providing a fascinating insight into the daily life of a British battleship during the late 19th century. The scene is a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of those on board, as well as the enduring traditions that brought a sense of normalcy and joy to life at sea.
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