Broadside with 48 scenes depicting animals from Mr Bidel's zoo in Barcelona 1865 - 1875

This broadside, created by Antonio Bosch in the late 19th century, presents 48 scenes from Mr. Bidel's Barcelona zoo. It’s printed on a single sheet of paper, likely using a relatively inexpensive printing process such as lithography or wood engraving. The choice of printing reflects its intended purpose: mass communication. The scenes, depicting various animals, are arranged in a grid, suggesting a desire to catalog and disseminate information. Each scene offers a glimpse into the zoo, showcasing exotic creatures and performances. The print medium itself speaks to the rise of mass culture and entertainment during this period. The broadside functioned as a promotional tool, enticing potential visitors to the zoo. But it also speaks to a wider social context of exploration, scientific curiosity, and the commodification of nature. The method of production is crucial to its meaning, blurring the lines between art, advertising, and social documentation.