Chimneysweep
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Chimneysweep
A sweep comes down the wrong chimney and finds himself in a girls bedroom (scene from Kingsleys The Water Babies )
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 584857
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10038149
1863 Bed Room Chimney Chimney Sweep Conditions Finds Sweep Sweeps Wrong
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures a pivotal moment from Charles Kingsley's classic children's novel, "The Water Babies," published in 1863. In the scene, a chimney sweep, covered in soot from head to toe, tumbles down the wrong chimney and lands unexpectedly in the bedroom of a young girl. The historical context of this moment is significant, as chimney sweeping was a common occupation during the Industrial Revolution, with children as young as six years old often forced to work long hours in dangerous conditions. The grim reality of chimney sweeping is contrasted with the innocence and wonder of childhood in this scene. The girl, startled by the intrusion, looks on in surprise and curiosity as the sweep, equally surprised, takes in his unexpected surroundings. The sweep's disheveled appearance and the contrasting cleanliness of the girl's bedroom serve to highlight the stark divide between the harsh world of industry and the safe haven of childhood. This image is a poignant reminder of the harsh working conditions endured by chimney sweeps during this period in history. The Water Babies, which tells the story of a chimney sweep who is transformed into a water baby and learns valuable life lessons, was a popular and influential work in its time, shedding light on the plight of the working class and advocating for reforms. This photograph, from the extensive collection of Mary Evans Picture Library, offers a glimpse into the past and provides a visual representation of the story's enduring themes of childhood, industry, and social justice.
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