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France - Arcachon - Oyster Gatherer
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France - Arcachon - Oyster Gatherer
A wonderful postcard photograph of a woman Oyster Gatherer (Parqueuse) from Arcachon in the Gironde department in southwestern France. She holds a basket of oysters on one arm and a pretty lethal-looking extraction tool in the other! Note the wide wooden footwear to protect her feet against the soft surface of the mudflats. Date: circa 1908
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Media ID 11584573
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Apron Arcachon Claw Crop Department Disperse Extraction Footwear Gather Gatherer Gathering Gathers Gironde Hammer Oyster Oysters Shellfish Shoes Tool Weight Wide Mudflat Mudflats
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> Gironde
EDITORS COMMENTS
This postcard photograph, hailing from circa 1908, transports us to the picturesque town of Arcachon in the Gironde department of southwestern France. The image showcases a remarkable woman, known as a parqueuse, engaged in the age-old tradition of oyster gathering. Dressed in a simple yet practical outfit, she balances a basket of freshly harvested oysters on one arm while wielding a rather formidable extraction tool in the other. Her wide, wooden footwear, or sabots, protect her feet against the delicate surface of the mudflats. The mudflats of Arcachon Bay are renowned for their abundance of oysters and other shellfish, making this a vital and time-honored occupation for the local community. The woman's hat and apron add a touch of charm to her appearance, while her determined expression speaks volumes about the dedication and hard work required for this job. The extraction tool, resembling a cross between a claw and a hammer, is a testament to the challenging conditions under which these women worked. Their role was essential in providing sustenance for their families and contributing to the local economy. This photograph offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and culture of Arcachon, showcasing the resilience and resourcefulness of the women who played a crucial role in the region's oyster industry.
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