Shoeblack (Petherick)
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Shoeblack (Petherick)
London characters: a SHOEBLACK wearing the uniform of the London Shoeblack brigade, who polish gentlemens boots in the filthy streets of London
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 615142
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10096441
Characters Filthy Petherick Polish Shoeblack
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the image of a Shoeblack, or boot-black, named Petherick, standing on a filthy London street in the late 1800s. Petherick is depicted wearing the uniform of the London Shoeblack Brigade, an industry that emerged in the 18th century to cater to the polishing needs of the city's gentlemens boots. The uniform, consisting of a dark jacket and trousers, a white shirt, and a red sash, is a testament to the pride and professionalism of the shoeblacks in their work. The historical context of this photograph is significant, as it captures a moment in time when London's streets were notoriously dirty and unsanitary. The shoeblacks played an essential role in maintaining a semblance of cleanliness and respectability in the city, providing a service that was both practical and social. They would set up their makeshift stands on street corners, using a large, flat stone or a wooden board to shine the shoes of passing gentlemen. The Shoeblack Brigade was a popular subject for photographers of the time, who captured the unique character and personality of these London figures. Petherick's expression in this photograph suggests a sense of confidence and determination, as he looks directly at the camera with a steady gaze. The photograph also highlights the contrast between the clean, polished shoes of the gentleman and the grime and dirt of the London streets, emphasizing the importance of the shoeblacks in the city's social fabric. This photograph is a fascinating glimpse into the history of London's street life and the important role of the shoeblacks in maintaining the city's cleanliness and respectability during a time of great change and urbanization.
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