Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > Fashion
Manufacture of Ostrich Feathers - Plumping 1907
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Manufacture of Ostrich Feathers - Plumping 1907
After the ostrich feathers complete there journey from Cape Town, South Africa, bales of cruelly plucked feathers arrive by boat to London, the Worlds feather market. Still with flesh torn and bleeding tips, feathers were washed and then dried by a madeleine wheel to give them a plump appearance, shown in the photograph. Before sold at auction to buyers from Paris, Vienna and America. Date: 1907
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 32223088
© Mary Evans Picture Library
Feather Feathers Manufacture Manufacturers Occupation Ostrich Plumage Plump Preparing Producing Wheel 1907
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Africa
> South Africa
> Cape Town
> Animals
> Birds
> Ostriches
> Related Images
> Europe
> France
> Paris
> Fashion
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> Fashion
> Historic
> Historical fashion trends
> Edwardian era fashion trends
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images July 2023
EDITORS COMMENTS
This haunting image captures the dark reality behind the glamorous ostrich feather industry of 1907. The journey of these feathers from Cape Town to London was a brutal one, with bales arriving by boat still bearing flesh and blood. The feathers were then subjected to a cruel process known as plumping, where they were washed and dried on a madeleine wheel to give them a fuller appearance.
Despite their origins in suffering, these feathers would soon be sold at auction to buyers from around the world, destined for use in fashionable hats and accessories. The demand for ostrich feathers during this time was driven by luxury and status, with Paris, Vienna, and America all eager markets for these exotic plumage.
In this photograph, we are confronted with the harsh realities of an industry built on exploitation and cruelty. It serves as a stark reminder that beauty often comes at a cost - in this case, the lives of countless birds who suffered so that their feathers could adorn the heads of wealthy fashionistas. Let us not forget the sacrifices made in the name of style as we admire this stunning yet sobering image from Mary Evans Prints Online.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
