Skip to main content
Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 6

Victorian Curling Match: A Glimpse of Manchester's Ice Rink in 1877

About the Item

The image is a hand-colored print from The Graphic, dated March 24, 1877, depicting a scene of men playing the sport of curling at an ice rink in Manchester. Description of this original antique Print: - **Setting**: The scene takes place indoors at an ice rink, which is crowded with spectators, both men and women, who are dressed in 19th-century attire. The background includes architectural details such as high windows and a banner hanging above the rink. - **Players**: Several men, also in period attire including bowler hats, top hats, and coats, are engaged in the game. One man in a red coat is crouched down, possibly in the process of delivering a curling stone. - **Curling Equipment**: Curling stones, identifiable by their rounded shape and handles, are prominently displayed on the ice. The players are using brooms, an essential tool in curling used to sweep the ice and influence the stone's path. - **Audience**: A large number of spectators are visible, watching the game with interest. Their attire reflects the fashion of the late 19th century. ### Description of Curling: Curling is a sport in which players slide stones on a sheet of ice towards a target area segmented into four concentric circles. It is played with two teams, each consisting of four players. The primary objective is to accumulate the highest score by placing stones closest to the center of the target area, known as the "house." Points are scored based on the proximity of the stones to the center, with the team having the stone closest to the center scoring for all stones closer than the opponent's closest stone. Key elements of curling: - **Stones**: Made of granite and weighing around 44 pounds, each stone has a handle on top. - **Brooms**: Used to sweep the ice in front of the moving stone to influence its speed and direction. - **Delivery**: The player slides the stone down the ice towards the target, usually from a crouched position. - **Strategy and Skill**: Players must have good aim, strength, and strategic thinking to outmaneuver their opponents. The print captures a moment in time from the late 19th century when curling was already a popular winter sport, highlighting the game's enduring appeal and the lively atmosphere of the ice rink. MORE ABOUT THE GRAPHIC NEWSPAPER: The Graphic was a British weekly illustrated newspaper founded by William Luson Thomas in December 1869. It was renowned for its high-quality illustrations and became one of the most influential papers of its kind during the late 19th century. Here are some key points about The Graphic and its significance during that time: ### Historical Context and Influence: - **Innovative Illustrations**: The Graphic was noted for its detailed and artistic illustrations, which were considered innovative for the period. These illustrations were created by some of the finest artists of the time and were often hand-colored, as seen in the print you provided. - **Wide Appeal**: The paper appealed to a broad audience, including the middle and upper classes, due to its sophisticated content and presentation. It provided a visual and narrative account of contemporary events, societal trends, and cultural activities. - **Global Reach**: Though it was a British publication, The Graphic had a global reach, influencing other illustrated newspapers around the world. Its style and quality set a standard that many other publications aspired to match. - **Coverage of Events**: The Graphic covered a wide range of topics, including politics, social issues, cultural events, and sports. It was known for its in-depth and empathetic coverage of humanitarian issues and social reform, often bringing attention to matters of public concern. - **Impact on Art and Media**: The paper played a significant role in the development of visual journalism. Many of its contributors were prominent artists who later became influential figures in the art world. The Graphic's approach to combining art and news influenced future generations of illustrated journalism. ### Significance of the Print: - **Cultural Documentation**: The print depicting the curling match in Manchester is an example of how The Graphic documented contemporary recreational activities and cultural practices. It provides a historical snapshot of the period, illustrating not only the sport of curling but also the fashion and social dynamics of the time. - **Educational Value**: Such prints served an educational purpose, informing readers about various aspects of life in different parts of the world. They often accompanied articles that provided context and detailed descriptions, enhancing the reader's understanding and engagement. Overall, The Graphic was a pioneering publication that left a lasting legacy in the realm of illustrated journalism, combining artistic excellence with informative content to capture the essence of its era.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 11.23 in (28.5 cm)Width: 15.2 in (38.6 cm)Depth: 0.01 in (0.2 mm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1877
  • Condition:
    Good condition with some offset; vibrant colors, minor aging, intact edges. Later handcoloring.
  • Seller Location:
    Langweer, NL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BG-12717-41stDibs: LU3054340524562

More From This Seller

View All
Metamorphosis in Motion: A Victorian Glimpse of British Butterflies, 1890
Located in Langweer, NL
The prints are from "A History of British Butterflies" by Morris, which are quite collectible and historically significant. A description of the three butterfly species in these orig...
Category

Antique 1890s Prints

Materials

Paper

Festive Athletics: The Annual Manchester Athletic Festival, The Racecourse, 1877
Located in Langweer, NL
The print, titled "The Annual Manchester Athletic Festival on the Manchester Racecourse," showcases a vibrant athletic event. This scene is set outdoors on a racecourse, where variou...
Category

Antique 1870s Prints

Materials

Paper

Antique Engraving of a Japanese Lady, 1877
Located in Langweer, NL
Antique print titled 'Japonaise'. Old print of a Japanese lady, standing near the water. This print originates from 'L'Eau Forte en 1877'. Artists and Engravers: Etching by Étienne-Prosper Berne...
Category

Antique 19th Century Prints

Materials

Paper

Daily Life in Tierra del Fuego: A Glimpse of the Fuegian People in 1783
Located in Langweer, NL
The print depicts a scene of the indigenous inhabitants of Tierra del Fuego, an archipelago off the southernmost tip of the South American mainland, across the Strait of Magellan. Ti...
Category

Antique 1780s Prints

Materials

Paper

Resolution Bay on St. Christina: A Glimpse of the Marquesas in Cook's Voyages
Located in Langweer, NL
Antique print that translates from Dutch to "View of Resolution Bay, on the Island of St. Christina, one of the Marquesas Islands." This is a historical print from the Dutch edition ...
Category

Antique Early 19th Century Dutch Prints

Materials

Paper

Antique Print of Fashion in April 1877 by Klemm & Weiss, circa 1900
Located in Langweer, NL
Antique print titled 'Der Beobachter - Expedition der Europaeischen Moden Zeitung'. Lithograph of fashion in April 1877. Published circa 1900. Artists and Engravers: Published by ...
Category

Antique 19th Century Prints

Materials

Paper

You May Also Like

“A Football Match, Scotland v. England” Antique Engraving, Proof Edition of 100
By Overend and Smythe
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
This is the 1889 William H. Overend (1851-1898) and Lionel Smythe (1839-1918) first edition, photogravure of the Calcutta Cup – a Rugby match between Scotland and England, that has been played over 100 times, the first match...
Category

Antique 19th Century English Prints

Materials

Paper

Victorian Arabic Etching Set in Gilt Frame
Located in Worcester, GB
Victorian Arabic Etching set in gilt frame Etching of gentleman in doorway, Arabic writing above. Double mounted & set behind glass in gilt frame. Frame measures 34.5 x ...
Category

Antique 19th Century European Prints

Materials

Paper

Set of Four 19th Century English Victorian Nature Printed Ferns in Black Frames
Located in Atlanta, GA
A set of four English nature printed ferns from the 19th century in black frames and under glass. A rare selection of 19th century English nature printed ferns from the Ferns of Grea...
Category

Antique 19th Century English Prints

Materials

Glass, Wood, Paper

20th Century School Print of Ice Bear and Reindeer 'Double-Sided'
Located in Markington, GB
20th century school print of Ice bear and reindeer (double-sided) these prints were used to teach the kids about different animals around the world. Signed.
Category

Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Prints

Materials

Paper

1891 Football Match and Association Game after W. Overend, Antique Photogravure
Located in Colorado Springs, CO
This wonderfully expressive photogravure was published in 1891 in London. The etching was made after W.H. Overend’s original work, still showcasing his signature at the bottom left o...
Category

Antique 1890s English Prints

Materials

Paper

French Victorian Framed Engraving of a Landscape "Le Matin"
Located in Queens, NY
French Victorian oak framed engraving of landscape titled: "Le Matin" or "The Morning".  
Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Victorian Prints

Materials

Oak

Recently Viewed

View All