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SHOE-BLACK 1877
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
SHOE-BLACK 1877
A Shoe-Black boy cleans and shines a gentlemans shoes on a wooden block
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 607383
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10058976
1877 Block Cleans Over Coat Shines Shining Shoe Shoes Trades
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures a moment in time from the late 19th century, depicting a young shoe-black boy diligently cleaning and shining a gentleman's shoes on a wooden block. The scene unfolds on a bustling street, with passersby and other traders in the background, adding to the lively atmosphere of the urban setting. The shoe-black, dressed in an overcoat to protect himself from the elements, focuses intently on his work, ensuring each shoe is polished to a mirror-like shine. The wooden block, a common tool used in the shoe-shining trade during this era, is a testament to the traditional methods employed by these artisans. The historical significance of this image lies in its portrayal of a common urban trade that was an essential part of daily life in the late 1800s. Shoe-shining was a service that was in high demand, as gentlemen sought to maintain their appearance and respectability in public. The photograph also highlights the social hierarchy of the time, with the shoe-black, a member of the working class, providing a service to the affluent gentleman. This interaction between the two classes serves as a reminder of the economic and social divisions that existed during this period. Overall, this photograph is a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering a unique perspective on the daily life and trades of urban communities during the late 1800s. The image is a testament to the rich history of shoe-shining and the important role it played in the lives of people during this era.
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