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Chang and Eng Bunker, the original Siamese Twins
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Chang and Eng Bunker, the original Siamese Twins
Chang and Eng Bunker, the original Siamese Twins, joined at the chest, playing badminton.
circa 1829
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23271568
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1820s Audience Badminton Brother Brothers Bunker Chang Chest Curiosity Joined Racket Racquet Shuttlecock Siamese Spectators Twin Twins
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this image from the 1820s, Chang and Eng Bunker, the original Siamese Twins, are seen engaged in a friendly game of badminton, showcasing their remarkable bond and extraordinary dexterity. Born in Siam (now Thailand) in 1811, the conjoined twins were joined at the chest, sharing a common torso but having separate heads, arms, and legs. The brothers gained international fame after being exhibited in Europe and the United States from 1829 onwards. Their unique condition and the ability to perform various tasks together, such as eating, dressing, and even playing musical instruments, made them a source of immense curiosity and fascination for audiences. In this photograph, Chang and Eng are seen skillfully wielding their badminton rackets, with a shuttlecock poised mid-air between them. The brothers' attire suggests that they are dressed in fashionable Western clothing, reflecting the influence of European culture on their lives. The image also reveals a rapt audience, gathered around them, observing their game with great interest and admiration. The brothers' ability to participate in sports and lead relatively normal lives, despite their physical condition, added to their allure as human oddities. Their story is a testament to their resilience, adaptability, and the enduring human fascination with the extraordinary. This evocative photograph not only offers a glimpse into the lives of Chang and Eng Bunker but also serves as a reminder of the intrigue and wonder that surrounds human differences and the human spirit's ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity.
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