FRENCH PORTEUR DEAU

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FRENCH PORTEUR DEAU

A French porteur deau or water carrier. Date: 1850

Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries

Media ID 20156285

© Bubblepunk

1850 Carrier Carriers Community Supply Porteur

EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the daily life of a French porteur deau, or water carrier, in the mid-19th century. Dressed in traditional attire, the carrier wears a large, woven basket slung over his shoulders, balanced precariously on a yoke across his chest. The basket is filled to the brim with heavy jugs of water, each one carefully secured with ropes to prevent spills during transport. The porteur deau was an essential member of the community, providing a vital service to households and businesses that did not have access to a reliable water supply. He would travel from well or spring to his customers, often covering great distances on foot. The water was drawn using a bucket and rope system, and the carrier would then carefully fill his basket, taking care to ensure that each jug was securely fastened. The scene depicted in this photograph is likely to have taken place in a rural area, where access to clean water was a daily challenge. The porteur deau's strength and endurance were put to the test as he navigated uneven terrain and steep inclines, all while carrying the heavy weight of his load. Despite the physical demands of the job, the porteur deau was a respected figure in the community. His service was essential for maintaining health and hygiene, and his presence was a reminder of the interconnectedness of rural life. This image offers a glimpse into a bygone era, when the simple act of carrying water was a heroic undertaking.

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