Thomas Woodward, The Rat-Catcher and his Dogs exhibited 1824
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The village rat-catcher, taking a rest on the steps, is identified not only by the cage containing live vermin by his side, but by his unusual hat-band, portraying his prey. A cat stalking the caged rats, disregarded by the man absorbed in playing with his terriers, introduces a note of humour to the scene. The purpose of the rat-catcher's occupation was probably straightforward pest control, although 'ratting' - when dogs competed to kill live rats in a pit - was a popular blood sport.
Woodward was employed as an animal painter by Queen Victoria but he also produced landscapes and historical subjects. He was a pupil of Abraham Cooper, an example of whose work is shown to the right.
Woodward was employed as an animal painter by Queen Victoria but he also produced landscapes and historical subjects. He was a pupil of Abraham Cooper, an example of whose work is shown to the right.
September 2004
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