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The Obby Oss, Duke Street, Padstow, Cornwall. 1966
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Royal Cornwall Museum
The Obby Oss, Duke Street, Padstow, Cornwall. 1966
The May Day Obby Oss festival with the parade moving through the town. The Obby Oss is an integral part of the May Day celebrations in Padstow. Each year, on the 1st May, the town is decorated in greenery and the Oss (horse) parades the streets, followed by a teaser who holds a padded bat. The procession is accompanied by accordions, drums and singing. The fearsome Oss wears a large mask and swirling skirts under which he tries to catch young maids. Photographer: Charles Woolf
Royal Cornwall Museum is the UK's Greatest Museum For Cornish Life & Culture
TRURI : PADos.53a
Media ID 15263599
© RIC, photographer Charles Woolf
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This photograph captures the essence of tradition and merriment during the May Day Obby Oss festival in Padstow, Cornwall, back in 1966. The image showcases Duke Street adorned with vibrant greenery as the parade makes its way through town. At the heart of this annual celebration stands the fearsome Obby Oss, a majestic horse figure intricately crafted to embody both awe and excitement. Cloaked in swirling skirts and donning an imposing mask, he becomes a mythical creature that seeks to catch young maids who cross his path. A teaser follows closely behind, brandishing a padded bat ready for playful encounters. The procession is accompanied by lively accordions, rhythmic drums, and joyous singing that fill the air with infectious energy. Locals gather along the streets to witness this age-old spectacle unfold before their eyes. Photographer Charles Woolf has masterfully captured this moment frozen in time – a snapshot of history that encapsulates centuries of tradition passed down from generation to generation. It serves as a reminder of how deeply rooted cultural celebrations can be within communities. This remarkable print is now housed at Royal Cornwall Museum, serving as an enduring testament to Padstow's unique heritage and its unwavering commitment to preserving customs that bring people together year after year.
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