Home > Europe > United Kingdom > Scotland > Strathclyde > Johnstone
Harpies / Johnstone
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Harpies / Johnstone
Though Johnstone includes the harpy in his natural history of birds, they are only half- birds, having human faces; they have nasty habits and they smell awful
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 604713
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10050841
1650 Awful Faces Folk Lore Habits Half Harpy Human Includes Johnstone Nasty Smell Harpies
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print, circa 1650, showcases the enigmatic and terrifying figure of the Harpy, a mythical creature from ancient Greek and Roman mythology and later included in the natural history of birds by Johnston in the 17th century. The Harpy, depicted here with its grotesque human face and the body of a bird, was believed to have the wings of a vulture and the talons of an eagle. According to folklore, these creatures were notorious for their nasty habits and pungent smell, making them objects of fear and awe. The Harpy's origins can be traced back to Greek mythology, where they were depicted as divine creatures that punished mortals by snatching them away with their talons. However, in Johnston's natural history, they were included among the avian species, reflecting the blurred lines between myth and reality during the Renaissance period. This intriguing print serves as a reminder of the fascination with the natural world and the supernatural during the 17th century. The Harpy, with its half-human, half-bird form, represents the boundary between the known and the unknown, the natural and the mythical. Its nasty habits and awful smell only added to its allure and the sense of wonder and fear it inspired in those who encountered it. The print's intricate details and rich colors bring the Harpy to life, transporting us back to a time when the natural world was still full of mysteries and the supernatural held a powerful allure. This image is a testament to the enduring power of myth and folklore, and the human fascination with the unknown.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
