These illustrations show the various uses of domestic fowls with six of the eight uses relating to food and trade. To add, these illustrations are reflective of contemporary societal expectations with a woman being depicted doing domestic work such as preparing the poultry, making the bed, and feeding the domestic fowls. Conversely, the male figures are shown in well-dressed attire and are enjoying the benefits of domestic fowls without the practical labour such as: the waiter serving the chicken while the woman cooks it. External to trade and the production of eggs, domestic fowl are considered to be animals for consumption with most of illustrations indicating that domestic fowls are more useful after death. This conclusion is highlighted with the contrast between domestic fowls and the horse, see HMCMS:FA2010.603. Here, the horse is shown to serve a practical purpose as a beast of burden and therefore, requires greater care whereas, domestic fowls are considered to be plentiful, replaceable, and comparatively low value. While an exact date cannot be found, Roake and Varty were based at 31 Strand, London between 1831 to 1842. This address matches the address shown in the illustration meaning that the illustration was likely produced between these years.
This object was audited and researched as part of the National Lottery Heritage Funded Data Hunters and Story Gatherers project.
