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Cuffee Dancing for Eels
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Cuffee Dancing for Eels
Catharine Market. Date: ca. 1865
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Media ID 7254697
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10587269
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This image, titled "Cuffee Dancing for Eels at Catharine Market," transports us back in time to the vibrant and bustling Catharine Market in London during the mid-19th century. The photograph, taken around 1865, showcases a lively scene of a man, identified as a 'Cuffee,' engaging in an age-old tradition of dancing to attract eels for sale. The market, bustling with activity, is filled with onlookers, vendors, and the aroma of fresh produce and seafood. The Cuffee, dressed in colorful attire, is seen in the center of the frame, skillfully moving to the rhythm of traditional music played by a small band. His energetic dance is believed to have been used to stimulate the eels in the nearby pits, making them more active and easier to catch. The eels, visible in the large pits in the foreground, are an essential component of this intriguing scene. They were a popular food source for the British population, particularly in the 19th century, and were often sold live at markets like Catharine. The Cuffee's unique method of attracting them added an element of entertainment and spectacle to the market experience. This photograph offers a rare glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and daily life of London during the Victorian era. The fusion of various communities, traditions, and industries is beautifully captured in this image, making it a fascinating and valuable addition to the historical record.
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