Mary Mary Quite Contrary

A Teacup – A take Off

This Mary is so unusual that she may not be recognized as associated with the traditional nursery rhyme. In fact, the picture book from which it comes is not an interpretation of the rhyme but a take-off from it, emphasizing the contrary nature of the protagonist. This Mary is so contrary that she approaches – and makes friends with – a giant who has been frightening her whole community. Here we see her taking a bath in one of his teacups after helping him prepare a special amusement park for the townspeople. The flower motif in the cup may also be a reference to the original rhyme. Note additional details that both reveal relative size and add humor to this image.