Home > Arts > Artists > Y > Art Young
Swan-Upping / Robertson
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Swan-Upping / Robertson
Swan-upping on the Thames (catching young swans to mark them)
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 595034
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10048056
1873 Catching Mark Robertson Swan Swans Upping
EDITORS COMMENTS
Swan-Upping on the River Thames, 1873: A Historical Tradition in Action This evocative photograph captures the timeless scene of Swan-Upping on the River Thames in England, a centuries-old tradition that continues to this day. The image, taken in 1873 by an unknown photographer and published by Mary Evans Picture Library, showcases a group of gentlemen in Victorian attire aboard a small boat, carefully and skillfully catching young swans using billhooks. Swan-Upping is an ancient custom that dates back to at least the 12th century, when it was first recorded in the Pipe Rolls of King John. The primary purpose of Swan-Upping is to mark and count the young swans, known as cygnets, to ensure their health and wellbeing. The swans are also protected by the Crown, and Swan-Upping provides an opportunity to check for any signs of injury or illness. The scene unfolds on the serene waters of the Thames, with the gentlemen expertly maneuvering their boat to position themselves near a group of swans. One man wades into the water, holding a billhook, a long-handled hook with a curved blade, used to secure the young swans by their legs. The swans, seemingly unfazed by the human presence, glide gracefully through the water. The tradition of Swan-Upping is steeped in history and is considered a significant part of British culture. The event takes place annually in late July, and the Queen, as the monarch, has the right to claim the mute swans found on the Thames. The young swans are then cared for at various estates, including the Queen's Swan Marker's estate on the Upper Thames, before being released back into the wild once they are fully grown. This photograph offers a unique glimpse into a historical tradition that continues to captivate and intrigue, showcasing the harmony between humans and nature that has existed for centuries along the River Thames.
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
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
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.