Minstrel Banjo

For enthusiasts of early banjo

I thought that this was a topical banjo picture, the boat race having taken place yesterday, 26th March. 'Squash' was a familiar sight at events such as this and the Henley Regatta, until they were ousted by the more 'refined' Pierrot troupes in the mid 1890s

Views: 103

Comment by Ian Bell on March 27, 2011 at 8:29pm
Great drawing - I think that guy turns up in one of the Weidlich banjo books. Is that from an old Punch magazine?
Comment by Paul Certo on March 28, 2011 at 11:39pm

Good eye, Ian. He's on page 25 of Weidlich's Minstrel Banjo, with the tab for Dandy Jim. I had to check the book to see.

Paul

Comment by Bart McNeil on March 29, 2011 at 7:00am

Wonderful lithograph!!!

I was particularly interested in the fact that the minstrel is using a "strap" or cord to hold his banjo high on his chest, relating to a brief discussion on this site a few months ago. What a great contrast is set up between the minstrel and the crowd: beat up top hat and shabby tails, theatrical pose, and well observed hand positions and anatomy. A fine example of a high point in illustration and technique.

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