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Orang-Utan Dressed
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Orang-Utan Dressed
(pongo pygmaeus) The orang was long considered to be the closest to humankind - this inmate of the London zoo has been dressed in human clothes by the Zoological Society
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Media ID 588258
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10188849
1850 Closest Considered Dressed Human Inmate Orang Orang Utan Pongo Pygmaeus Utan Zoological Humankind
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> Vespertilionidae
> Pygmaeus
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This intriguing photograph captures the moment when an Orang-Utan, a primate species native to Southeast Asia and long considered the closest living relative to humans, was dressed in human clothes at the London Zoo in the mid-19th century. The Orang-Utan, scientifically known as Pongo pygmaeus, is shown here as an inmate of the zoological society, a curious and captivating sight for the Victorian public. The Orang-Utan's resemblance to humans, with its opposable thumbs, bipedal walking ability, and facial expressions, had long intrigued Europeans, leading to their fascination and desire to study and exhibit these primates in zoos and menageries. In this image, the Orang-Utan's human-like qualities are further emphasized by its clothing, which was likely intended to highlight its similarities to humans and make it more relatable and entertaining for visitors. This photograph, taken circa 1850, offers a glimpse into the historical relationship between humans and Orang-Utans, and the ways in which they have been perceived and represented throughout history. The Orang-Utan's inclusion in the zoological society and its dressing in human clothes reflect the complex and often contradictory attitudes towards these primates, which were both revered for their human-like qualities and objectified for their entertainment value. Today, Orang-Utans are recognized as endangered species, and efforts are being made to protect their habitats and promote their conservation. This photograph serves as a reminder of the important role that zoos and wildlife institutions can play in raising awareness and understanding of the natural world, while also highlighting the complex and sometimes problematic history of human-animal relationships.
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