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6/n
Dogs may have worked with #disabled performers.
In this illustration, the dog leads a Blind performer, who extends a begging bowl and has a child on his back.
The dog himself holds a begging bowl in his mouth.
#DisHist #ArtHistory #NationalDogDay #envhist
2/n
Medieval European texts show figures that might possibly be blind holding a staff & the lead of a dog. As per @NinonDubourg, dogs were not considered reliable or safe in theory, but they were likely used as companions and fellow performers while begging.
#DisHist #envhist
Thread:
1/n
Today is #NationalDogDay!
Time to re-examine the roles dogs have played in #DisHist!
For centuries, artists have shown dogs accompanying blind subjects, performers & beggars across the world, suggesting that dogs lived/worked alongside disabled handlers.
14/16
The healing wells were especially sought after to heal eye diseases and even blindness. Those seeking a cure would rise at dawn, followed the well’s pattern or prescribed ritual actions & bathed the eyes in the well’s water.
#DisHist #FolkloreThursday