In England at the end of the 17th century, only the rich could ask for a divorce, being almost certain of obtaining it, because this required making a request to Parliament. The procedure is very long and very expensive. How, then, to part with an unwelcome wife? By selling it! Is not the wife the property of her husband? As well as his property and his children? This is how the incredible practice of selling a wife developed throughout the 18th and 19th centuries! How is it going? The wife is publicly exhibited by her husband - often with a collar around the neck, waist, or arm - or even a lanyard, like a cow or a horse! The husband baits the barge by selling the qualities of his "product" ... and tries to raise the stakes. Obviously, this degrading spectacle attracts the crowds… and the gritty remarks fuse! Prices can range from a few shillings or a few guineas up to 25 pounds, which is the price of a horse!
In England at the end of the 17th century, only the rich could ask for a divorce, being almost certain of obtaining it, because this required making a request to Parliament.
The procedure is very long and very expensive.
How, then, to part with an unwelcome wife?
By selling it!
Is not the wife the property of her husband?
As well as his property and his children?
This is how the incredible practice of selling a wife developed throughout the 18th and 19th centuries!
How is it going?
The wife is publicly exhibited by her husband - often with a collar around the neck, waist, or arm - or even a lanyard, like a cow or a horse!
The husband baits the barge by selling the qualities of his "product" ... and tries to raise the stakes.
Obviously, this degrading spectacle attracts the crowds… and the gritty remarks fuse!
Prices can range from a few shillings or a few guineas up to 25 pounds, which is the price of a horse!
