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Hobart Town Chain Gang, c. 1831 (etching)
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Hobart Town Chain Gang, c. 1831 (etching)
XND348414 Hobart Town Chain Gang, c.1831 (etching) by Bruce, Charles (1807-51); Private Collection; (add.info.: inscribed with This is no otherwise curious than as a specimen of the first efforts at engraving in Van Diemens Land / sent home from Van Diemens Land/1831 ; capital of the Australian island of Tasmania; first settled as a penal colony in 1803; ); Scottish, out of copyright
Media ID 12803417
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Convicts Criminals Guards Prisoners Sentence Tasmanian Punishment
EDITORS COMMENTS
This black and white etching, titled "Hobart Town Chain Gang, c. 1831" offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of life in Van Diemens Land (now Tasmania) during the early 19th century. Created by Charles Bruce, a Scottish artist, this print showcases the struggles faced by prisoners and convicts who were sent to Australia as punishment. The image depicts a group of male prisoners clad in tattered clothing, their faces etched with weariness and resignation. They are chained together, forced to endure grueling labor under the watchful eyes of soldiers and guards. The somber atmosphere is palpable as these men face their sentences for crimes committed. This historical artwork serves as more than just an artistic representation; it provides valuable insight into the first attempts at engraving in Van Diemens Land. It was sent back home from Australia in 1831 as a curious specimen of early engraving efforts. As we observe this powerful scene frozen in time, we are reminded of the brutal nature of punishment and confinement that once prevailed within our society. This print serves as a poignant reminder of our past and prompts us to reflect on how far we have come since those days. Displayed proudly in private collections today, this piece stands not only as an artistic achievement but also as an important historical document shedding light on Australia's penal colony history.
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