The Majestic and Graceful Giraffes, or Cameleopards, with some Rare Animals of the Gazelle Species 1838

This print of giraffes and gazelles was made by Edward Williams Clay, likely in the 1830s, using lithography. It presents an opportunity to consider the cultural context surrounding the display and consumption of exotic animals in 19th-century America. The image invites us to look at how visual codes create meaning, reflecting the social structures of the time. Note the outdated term "cameleopards," highlighting the then-limited scientific understanding. Also the presence of a figure, presumably an African attendant, in a position of servitude raises questions about race, colonialism, and the power dynamics inherent in showcasing exotic animals for entertainment and profit. To fully understand this print, we would benefit from researching the history of zoological exhibitions, the social attitudes towards race and colonialism, and the economic structures that supported the trade in exotic animals. Only then can we grasp the full significance of the artwork within its specific social and institutional context.