Home > Fine Art Storehouse > Photo Libraries > Heritage Images
Begging Techniques
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Fine Art Storehouse
Begging Techniques
Three types of British beggar. At top left is a soap-eater of the Elizabethan period, who would eat soap in order to froth at the mouth, while feigning a fit to gain sympathy. At top right is a Tom of Bedlam, a beggar, who feigned mental illness, and was assumed to be a former inmate of Bedlam (Bethlem Royal Hospital). The lower image depicts a disabled beggar with a dog holding a collection plate, circa 1500. (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)
Unleash your creativity and transform your space into a visual masterpiece!
Hulton Archive
Media ID 11794146
© 2009 Getty Images
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the intriguing world of British beggars throughout history. In this image, we are presented with three distinct types of beggars, each employing unique techniques to elicit sympathy and support from passersby. At the top left corner, we encounter an Elizabethan soap-eater. This peculiar individual would consume soap to create froth in their mouth while pretending to have a fit. Their aim was to evoke compassion and generosity from onlookers who believed they were witnessing a distressing medical episode. Moving to the top right corner, we meet a Tom of Bedlam - a beggar who feigned mental illness. These individuals were often assumed to be former inmates of Bedlam, London's infamous psychiatric hospital. By adopting erratic behavior and displaying signs of madness, they hoped for alms from those who pitied their unfortunate condition. Finally, at the lower part of the image, our attention is drawn towards a disabled beggar accompanied by his loyal canine companion holding a collection plate. This depiction dates back to around 1500 when disability was viewed as both physically and socially debilitating. Through this thought-provoking photograph, we are reminded that begging has long been an artful practice shaped by societal attitudes towards poverty and vulnerability. It serves as an invitation for us to reflect upon our own perceptions and responses towards those less fortunate than ourselves.
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.