- Artist
- Thomas Woodward 1801–1852
- Medium
- Oil paint on mahogany
- Dimensions
- Support: 432 × 540 mm
frame: 710 × 813 × 110 mm - Collection
- Tate
- Acquisition
- Bequeathed by Edward Archer 1892
- Reference
- N01379
Display caption
The village rat-catcher, resting on the steps, is identified not only by the cage containing live vermin at his side, but by his unusual hat-band, portraying his prey. A cat stalking the caged rats, ignored 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.
Gallery label, February 2016
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