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The Independent Shoe-Black, 1881. Creator: John Thomson
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The Independent Shoe-Black, 1881. Creator: John Thomson
The Independent Shoe-Black, 1881. A work made of woodburytype, plate 21 in the book " street incidents" (1881)
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 23873363
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
1881 Adolphe Smith Bootblack Child Labour J Thompson John Thomson London England United Kingdom Polishing Service Shoeblack Shoeshine Boy Shoeshiner Smith Adolphe Social Class Street Incidents And Street Life Thomson John Woodburytype Working Class Scots
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The Independent Shoe-Black, 1881 - Capturing the Essence of Victorian Street Life
EDITORS COMMENTS
. This print titled "The Independent Shoe-Black, 1881" by John Thomson takes us back to the bustling streets of late 19th century Britain. The image showcases a young shoe-shine boy diligently polishing a gentleman's boots on a busy London street. In this snapshot of history, we witness the stark reality of child labor and social class divisions during that era. The boy's earnest expression reflects his determination to earn an honest living in challenging circumstances. His occupation as a shoe-black was common among working-class children who sought employment in order to support their families. Thomson's woodburytype technique beautifully captures every intricate detail, allowing us to appreciate the craftsmanship involved in creating this vintage artwork. Plate 21 from his book "Street Incidents" immortalizes this poignant scene forever. As we gaze upon this photograph at the Art Institute Chicago or any art gallery fortunate enough to house it, we are transported back in time. We can almost hear the sounds of horse-drawn carriages passing by and feel the energy pulsating through these historic streets. "The Independent Shoe-Black, 1881" serves as a powerful reminder of our shared heritage and societal progress over time. It prompts reflection on how far we have come since those days while acknowledging that there is still work to be done for equality and fair opportunities for all members of society.
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