RAREE SHOWS Meaning and
Definition
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Raree shows, also known as peepshows or peep boxes, refer to a type of entertainment popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. It involved a small wooden box or portable structure with peepholes or viewing slots on one or more sides. Inside the box, a series of miniature scenes or dioramas would be arranged, typically depicting a variety of subjects such as historical events, exotic landscapes, or famous landmarks.
These dioramas were crafted with intricate details and vibrant colors to capture the viewer's imagination. To view the scenes, individuals would pay a small fee and look through the peepholes, which allowed them to observe each miniature tableau as they turned a handle or crank on the box. The scenes would be accompanied by narration or descriptions to further enhance the experience.
Raree shows served as a form of entertainment that allowed people to escape into a miniature world of wonder and spectacle. They were commonly found at fairs, carnivals, or traveling shows, captivating audiences with their unique combination of visual artistry and storytelling. While the images inside the box were often flat, the clever use of perspective and lighting gave them a three-dimensional appearance when viewed through the peepholes.
Today, raree shows are considered artifacts of the past, but they hold historical and cultural significance as precursors to modern visual entertainment. They offered a peek into the possibilities of early visual storytelling and were a stepping stone towards the development of mediums like stereoscopes, photography, and eventually cinema.
Common Misspellings for RAREE SHOWS
- ree shows
- earee shows
- daree shows
- faree shows
- taree shows
- 5aree shows
- 4aree shows
- rzree shows
- rsree shows
- rwree shows
- rqree shows
- raeee shows
- radee shows
- rafee shows
- ratee shows
- ra5ee shows
- ra4ee shows
- rarwe shows
- rarse shows
- rarde shows
Etymology of RAREE SHOWS
The word "raree shows" has its origins in the 17th century. It is derived from the French phrase "r'are, r'are", which means "rare, rare". Over time, this phrase developed into "raree", which in turn became the English term "raree show". Originally, "raree show" referred to a type of mobile street exhibition or peep show that featured a collection of curiosities, oddities, and visual spectacles. The term "raree" was used to emphasize the unique and unusual nature of the exhibits, creating a sense of fascination and rarity.
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