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Letter-writers and dealers in cigar-ends at Rome, 1864. Creator: Unknown
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Letter-writers and dealers in cigar-ends at Rome, 1864. Creator: Unknown
Letter-writers and dealers in cigar-ends at Rome, 1864. Engraving from a sketch by M. Mariani....especially on Sundays after mass, motley groups station themselves near a dirty-looking man who is sheltered by a large and tolerably deteriorated umbrella. This man is the public letter-writer, and it is he who, for a few pence, compiles for such of the unfortunate Roman people as do not possess the art of writing, their epistles, petitions, requests, demands, claims, and supplications to their Eminences of the Paternal Government...[He]...is confidently relied upon to give his advice and the benefit of his long experience in the conversations and discussions that take place hurriedly between him and his plebeian customers on the subjects of their various misfortunes, to be duly recited and turned to graphic account in the poorly-paid document resulting from the consultation. Another peculiar kind of business...is the trade in cigar-ends, or pieces of partly-smoked cigars picked up by enterprising descendants of Romulus, who pursue this "branch of commerce" in their perambulations. The secondhand merchandise finds a ready sale, and is either employed...for chewing, or for smoking in the small wooden pipes used by the modern Romans'. From "Illustrated London News", 1864
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Media ID 38074203
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a scene from Rome in 1864, showcasing the bustling activity of letter-writers and dealers in cigar-ends. The engraving, based on a sketch by M. Mariani, depicts the daily life of the Roman people as they gather around a public letter-writer under a worn umbrella. Especially popular on Sundays after mass, this man provides his services for those who lack the ability to write, composing various documents for a small fee.
In addition to the letter-writing business, another unique trade is highlighted in this image - the sale of cigar-ends. Enterprising individuals scour the streets for discarded cigar remnants which are then sold to eager customers for chewing or smoking in wooden pipes.
The detailed illustration offers a glimpse into the social and economic dynamics of Rome during this period, shedding light on the struggles and ingenuity of its inhabitants. It serves as a reminder of how everyday activities and interactions can reveal much about a society's customs and traditions.
This historical snapshot not only showcases the diversity of livelihoods within Rome but also underscores the resourcefulness and resilience of its people in making ends meet through unconventional means.
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