Old King Cole

Oddly Amusing – Ironic Athlete

Of all the pictures of Old King Cole, this egg-shaped figure is most like Humpty Dumpty. The banner below the image, which is round to emphasize the shape of the character inside, says he is droll. The illustration itself, however, is more ironic than droll. Medallions naming various athletic jumps with laurel wreaths around them obviously represent athletic victories, as do the roses at his feet; but this king looks as if he could hardly even jump into bed. Perhaps he is exercising his fingers, held out in front of him, or positioning his feet for a ballet step. It is clear that, if this character was awarded those medals, the crown counted for more than ability in those contests.