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The Pedestrian Hobbies, or the Difference of Going Up and Down Hill, published April 8, 1819. Creator: William Heath
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The Pedestrian Hobbies, or the Difference of Going Up and Down Hill, published April 8, 1819. Creator: William Heath
The Pedestrian Hobbies, or the Difference of Going Up and Down Hill, published April 8, 1819. Men riding hobby horses (a forerunner of the bicycle). The lack of gears and brakes meant they had to be carried uphill, and were dangerous going downhill. You have heard of old Pegassus flying no doubt, But our hobbies now Beat him good lack, For when you are tired of Rideing about, You may Carry your Horse on your Back'. Attributed to William Heath
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Media ID 36262821
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Accident Bicycle Bicycles Bike Bikes Craze Cycling Cyclist Cyclists Dandy Dandy Horse Danger Dangerous Downhill Fashionable Funny Gradient Heath William Hobby Hobby Horse Incident Innovation Milestone Paul Pry Pedestrian Hobbyhorse Peril Pry Paul Silly Uphill William Heath Hand Tinted Parody Pastime Satirical
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This etching by William Heath, titled "The Pedestrian Hobbies, or the Difference of Going Up and Down Hill," was published on April 8, 1819, and offers a humorous commentary on the emerging trend of hobby horses, a precursor to the bicycle. The print depicts two fashionably dressed men, each astride their hobby horses, as they navigate the ups and downs of a rural landscape. The lack of gears and brakes made these contraptions a challenge to use, requiring the rider to carry them uphill and exercise caution when going downhill. The verse inscribed at the bottom of the print reads, "You have heard of old Pegasus flying no doubt, But our hobbies now Beat him good lack, For when you are tired of Rideing about, You may Carry your Horse on your Back." This playful verse underscores the inconvenience and peril of hobby horse riding, while also highlighting the novelty and appeal of this new pastime. The men in the print are dressed in the fashionable attire of the day, with collars high and breeches tight, adding to the overall sense of humor and satire. The hand-colored etching on ivory wove paper showcases the intricate details of the hobby horses, the rolling hills, and the expressive faces of the riders. This print represents an important milestone in the history of transportation and leisure, offering a glimpse into the quirks and challenges of a bygone era. The Pedestrian Hobbies, or the Difference of Going Up and Down Hill, is a testament to the power of art to capture the essence of a moment in history and infuse it with humor and wit. This print is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of cycling, the evolution of fashion, or the art of satire.
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