Home > Europe > Belgium > Posters
The game of Popinjay in Belgium, 19th century
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
The game of Popinjay in Belgium, 19th century
The game of Popinjay in Belgium, 19th century. Men with muskets shoot at a target in a park. Handcoloured lithograph from Henry Rene Allemagnes Sports and Games of Skill (Sports et Jeux d Adresse), Librairie Hachette, Paris, 1903
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23204534
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Allemagne Dadresse Jeux Mast Musket Pastime Rene Rifle Shooting Skill Target Games Popinjay
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> Belgium
> Related Images
> Europe
> Belgium
> Sports
> Related Images
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
EDITORS COMMENTS
Popinjay, also known as Pape Gaye or Pagan Bird, was a popular outdoor game of skill and dexterity that originated in Europe during the Middle Ages. This image, taken from the 1903 publication "Sports et Jeux d'Adresse" (Sports and Games of Skill) by Henry Rene Allemagne, showcases the game being played in a Belgian park during the 19th century. In the photograph, several men, dressed in military attire, are seen gathered around a tall, wooden mast with a perch at its top. Each man holds a musket or rifle, their focused expressions indicating their determination to outdo one another. The target, a wooden bird with outstretched wings, sits on the perch, waiting to be hit. The hand-coloured lithograph beautifully captures the vibrant colours of the scene, with the lush greenery of the park providing a picturesque backdrop. Popinjay was a game of great entertainment and fun, often played during festivals and fairs. The objective was to shoot the perched bird with a rifle or crossbow, without hitting the mast. The player who successfully hit the bird would be awarded a prize, adding to the excitement and competition. The game required not only accuracy but also patience and steady nerves, making it a beloved pastime for many. This intriguing photograph offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Belgium during the 19th century, providing a fascinating insight into the leisure activities and pastimes of the time.
MADE IN THE USA
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
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.
