Home > Arts > Artists > T > John Thomson
Chinese Punishment, c. 1867-72 (b / w photo)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Finder
Chinese Punishment, c. 1867-72 (b / w photo)
473731 Chinese Punishment, c.1867-72 (b/w photo) by Thomson, John (1837-1921); Private Collection; (add.info.: The cangue or collar of wood is one of the lighter punishments of China inflicted for minor offences such as petty theft. The nature of the crime as well as the name and residence of the delinquent are inscribed in prominent characters on cards and fixed to the cangue.); Scottish, out of copyright
Media ID 22923182
© Bridgeman Images
1860s 1870s Cangue Chain Chained Chinaman Collar Corporal Punishment Criminal Crouch Crouching Humiliating Imperial China Petty Public Humiliation Punish Punished Retribution Shame Delinquent Punishment Shameful Shaming
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Arts
> Artists
> T
> John Thomson
> Arts
> Contemporary art
> Photography
> Nature-inspired artwork
> Asia
> Bhutan
> Related Images
> Asia
> China
> Related Images
> Fine Art Finder
> Artists
> John Thomson
> Fine Art Finder
> China, Tibet And Bhutan
EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph captures a haunting scene from imperial China, showcasing the practice of Chinese punishment in the late 19th century. Renowned Scottish photographer John Thomson skillfully captured this moment, depicting a man crouching in shame while wearing a wooden collar known as a cangue. The cangue was one of the milder forms of punishment reserved for minor offenses like petty theft. In an act of public humiliation, cards displaying the nature of the crime, as well as the name and residence of the delinquent, were prominently displayed on the cangue itself. Thomson's lens transports us to an era where retribution took center stage. The chained wrongdoer embodies both physical and emotional suffering, his posture reflecting not only his guilt but also society's desire to shame him into repentance. This photograph serves as a powerful reminder of how different cultures approached justice during that time period. It offers us insight into Chinese society's methods of maintaining order through corporal punishment and public humiliation. As we gaze upon this image, we are confronted with questions about our own modern notions of justice and whether such practices have truly evolved or merely transformed over time. Thomson's work continues to provoke contemplation on societal norms and their impact on individuals throughout history.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
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.
