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Shoe black (shoeshine boy) and client
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Shoe black (shoeshine boy) and client
Shoe black (shoeshine boy) and client, in 18th century style.
18th century
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23210898
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Blacking Brush Brushing Client Customer Georgian Polish Polishing Regency Shining Shoe Shoeshine Stool
EDITORS COMMENTS
A Moment of Refinement: The Artisanship of a Shoe Black in the 18th Century In this evocative 18th century image from Mary Evans Picture Library, we witness a tender exchange between a young shoeshine boy and his well-dressed client, both immaculately attired in the height of Regency and Georgian fashion. The scene unfolds on a bustling street, where the clamor of commerce and industry mingles with the soft brushing sounds of the shoeshine boy's meticulous work. The client, a man of distinction, sits comfortably on a worn wooden stool, his polished shoes resting on the boy's lap. The shoeshine boy, with an earnest expression, expertly wields his brushes and blacking, applying the finishing touches to the man's footwear. The boy's nimble fingers and focused gaze convey the pride and dedication he takes in his craft. This moment in time, captured in this exquisite print, serves as a testament to the importance of personal appearance and the artisanal trades that sustained the daily lives of people in the 18th century. The shoeshine boy, with his humble yet essential service, played a vital role in ensuring that the men of the era maintained their polished and refined appearance, both in their professional and social lives. The rich textures and intricate details of their costumes, from the man's silk waistcoat and breeches to the boy's simple linen shirt and trousers, further underscore the elegance and sophistication of the era. This evocative image invites us to appreciate the human connection and the artistry of a bygone era, where the simple act of shining shoes held a profound significance.
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