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OLD CLOTHES MAN C1825
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OLD CLOTHES MAN C1825
An old clothes man carries a large bag of garments. Date: circa 1825
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 20152105
© Bubblepunk
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This evocative image captures the daily life of an old clothes man in the early 19th century, circa 1825. The man, dressed in simple, worn clothing, is seen carrying a large, heavy bag filled with used garments slung over one shoulder. His face is etched with the lines of age and the weight of his labor, as he navigates the crowded, uneven streets of the time. The old clothes man was an essential figure in the pre-industrial economy, serving as a vital link in the chain of textile production and recycling. He would buy used clothing from the public, sort and clean the garments, and then resell them to those who could not afford new clothes. This trade, known as 'rag and bone' or 'clothes collecting,' was an important source of income for many people in the pre-industrial era. The old clothes man's bag is a testament to the circular nature of textile production during this time. The worn-out garments in his bag would be taken apart, the fabric recycled, and the fibers woven into new cloth. This process of recycling and reuse was a common practice in pre-industrial societies, where resources were limited and the concept of waste was not yet fully understood. This photograph offers a glimpse into the past, providing a window into the daily life of an ordinary working person in the early 19th century. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of resourcefulness and the circular economy, values that remain relevant in our contemporary world as we strive to reduce waste and minimize our impact on the environment.
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