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The village barber, 1772. Artist: James Bretherton
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The village barber, 1772. Artist: James Bretherton
The village barber, 1772. View of a barber, holding a lancet in one hand, a razor in the other and carrying a shaving dish under one arm. Behind is his house with a sign of a wig and a Latin and English legend. In the right background are village stocks
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Media ID 15169184
© London Metropolitan Archives (City of London) / Heritage-Images
Barber Bretherton Bunbury Crockery Dish Georgian Henry William Henry William Bunbury James Bretherton Razor Sign Stocks Tools Of The Trade Lancet Metaphor
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The Village Barber, 1772
EDITORS COMMENTS
by James Bretherton captures a whimsical scene from the bustling streets of 18th-century Britain. In this lively print, we see a caricatured barber engrossed in his trade, holding a lancet and razor with skillful precision. Under one arm, he carries a shaving dish, ready to provide his customers with the perfect shave. Behind him stands his quaint house adorned with a sign displaying both a wig and an intriguing Latin and English inscription. This clever detail hints at the barber's dual role as not only a hairdresser but also someone well-versed in medicine or science—a metaphor for their profession's diverse skills. The vibrant colors of the print bring to life the barber's distinctive attire—a coat that reflects the fashion of the time—and highlight various tools of his trade scattered around him. The artist, Henry William Bunbury, known for his satirical illustrations, adds an element of humor to this scene. In the background looms village stocks—an unmistakable symbol of justice and punishment during that era—reminding us that even amidst daily routines like grooming and personal care, societal norms prevailed. This artwork is housed at Guildhall Library and Art Gallery today. It serves as both an amusing glimpse into 18th-century British culture and an homage to those skilled professionals who played vital roles in their communities centuries ago.
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