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The Whale, c1850. Artist: Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins
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The Whale, c1850. Artist: Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins
The Whale, c1850. Around the main illustration of harpooning a whale and the whalers being tossed from their boat are vignettes of the uses to which the whale was put after the carcass had been cut up. Spermeciti candles and whale oil were prized for lighting. Whalebone, from the plates from the upper jaw of whalebone whales, was used for corsets and for umbrella frames. Whale meat was eaten. Ambergris was used in perfumes. Parts which were otherwise of no use were applied as fertilizer. From Graphic Illustrations of Animals and Their Utility to Man. (London, c1850)
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Media ID 14865113
© Oxford Science Archive / Heritage-Images
Aquatic Life Benjamin Waterhouse Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins Fertilizer Hawkins Lighthouse Oxford Science Archive Perfume Thomas Varty Umbrella Varty Whale Whale Oil Whalebone Whaler Whaling Ambergris
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The Whale, c1850
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a captivating lithograph print by Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins and Thomas Varty that showcases the multifaceted uses of whales in the 19th century. The central illustration depicts a dramatic scene of whalers harpooning a massive whale, with the crew being tossed from their boat. Surrounding this main image are vignettes depicting various ways in which different parts of the whale were utilized. The print highlights how every part of these majestic creatures was valued and put to practical use. Spermeciti candles and precious whale oil provided much-needed lighting during this era. Whalebone, sourced from plates found in the upper jaw of certain species, served as an essential material for corsets and umbrella frames. Furthermore, whale meat was consumed as food while ambergris found within their bodies became a sought-after ingredient in perfumes. Even parts that seemed useless were repurposed as fertilizer for agricultural purposes. This artwork not only captures the intricate relationship between humans and aquatic life but also sheds light on the occupation of whaling during this time period. It serves as a testament to both human ingenuity and our reliance on nature's resources for survival. "The Whale, c1850" is an invaluable historical document that offers us insight into 19th-century trade practices while showcasing Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins' artistic talent alongside Thomas Varty's contribution to its creation.
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