Chang-Eng, The Siamese Twins
Artist
Nathaniel Whitlock
(English, 1791 – 1860)
Date1827
MediumEtching
DimensionsMATTED: 8 1/4 x 11 15/16 in. (21 x 30.4 cm)
IMAGE: 7 3/8 x 10 11/16 in. (18.7 x 27.2 cm)
IMAGE: 7 3/8 x 10 11/16 in. (18.7 x 27.2 cm)
ClassificationsPrints
Credit LineMuseum purchase, 1951
Object numberSN1546.132.20
Conjoined at birth by a stretch of skin between their torsos, Chang and Eng Bunker attracted the attention of medical professionals and sideshow visitors around the world and inspired the use of the term “Siamese Twins.” They left their family in Siam, present day Thailand in 1827 to tour Europe and America under the management of Abel Coffin and Robert Hunter.
Many of the entertainments featured in these prints were shown in outdoor or public spaces like fairs and taverns. The twins were considered an especially unique attraction and their exhibition catered to a more elite audience. The spectacle of exceptionally rare performers often occurred in private parlors for upper class patrons rather than common ticket holders.
On View
Not on view
R. Ackermann & Co.
1829
