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Dressmakers workroom in London 1858
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Dressmakers workroom in London 1858
Interior of the working conditions of a dressmakers workroom in the west-end of London. With women over worked and tired at five-past twelve midnight.
1858
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23057296
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1850s 1858 Conditions Dresses Dressmaker Dressmakers Lights Regulations Sewing Tailored Tailors Tired Worked
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In this evocative photograph taken in 1858, we are granted a rare glimpse into the cramped and labor-intensive world of a dressmakers workroom in the bustling west-end of London. The scene unfolds late into the night, with the hands of the clock creeping past five-past twelve, indicating that the women's long day of toil is far from over. The room is filled with an air of industry and concentration, as the women, some seated and others standing, focus intently on their tasks. Their faces are etched with the signs of weariness and fatigue, a testament to the physically and emotionally demanding nature of their work. The room is dimly lit by a few flickering candles, casting long shadows and creating an atmosphere of quiet determination. The dressmakers and tailors, all women, are in various stages of creating and altering clothing, from cutting and pinning fabric to sewing and pressing finished garments. The walls are lined with shelves filled with rolls of fabric, sewing machines, and baskets of thread and pins. The floor is strewn with scraps of fabric and pins, adding to the chaotic yet organized chaos of the room. Despite the challenging working conditions, the women appear focused and dedicated to their craft. Dressmaking and tailoring were essential industries in Victorian Britain, and the demand for high-quality, custom-made clothing was high. However, the lack of regulations and long hours led to poor working conditions and low wages for the women who toiled away in these workrooms. This photograph offers a poignant snapshot of a bygone era, providing a glimpse into the lives of the women who played a crucial role in the production of Victorian clothing. The scene is a reminder of the sacrifices and hard work that went into creating the beautiful and intricate garments of the time.
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