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Shooting in Belgium C19
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Shooting in Belgium C19
Belgians enjoy pape-gaye - shooting at a wooden bird
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 610318
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10117942
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, titled "Shooting in Belgium, c. 1830s," transports us back in time to an idyllic scene of leisurely pastime in a quaint European village. The image, sourced from Mary Evans Picture Library, showcases a group of Belgian men engaged in the popular local activity known as "pape-gaye" or "papegay," a traditional shooting game using a wooden bird as a target. The serene outdoor setting is adorned with lush greenery, with trees lining the background and a clear blue sky overhead. The men, dressed in fashionable attire of the era, are seen gathered around a wooden structure, each taking turns aiming their rifles at the wooden bird suspended in mid-air. The sense of camaraderie and friendly competition is palpable, as the men exchange banter and offer encouragement to one another. The origins of the papegay game can be traced back to the 16th century, with variations of the game being popular in various European countries. The game involves a wooden bird, which is mechanically set in motion by a hidden mechanism, creating the illusion of flight. The objective is to shoot the bird as it flies across the sky, earning points based on the precision and skill of the shot. This photograph offers a unique glimpse into the rich cultural history of Belgium and the pastimes that have shaped its heritage. The tranquil scene, filled with the sounds of laughter and the crackle of gunpowder, serves as a reminder of simpler times and the enduring appeal of communal activities that bring people together.
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