Home > Europe > United Kingdom > England > London > River Thames
People working in a soap and candle factory, south London
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
People working in a soap and candle factory, south London
People working in the B T & W Hawes soap and candle factory on the south bank of the River Thames in London, showing soap-boiling coppers.
1842
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23149642
© Mary Evans Picture Library
1840s 1842 Bank Boiling Candle Candles Conditions Coppers Hawes Manual Manufacture Manufacturing Soap
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> London
> River Thames
> Mary Evans Prints Online
> New Images August 2021
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the daily grind of the working class in the early Victorian era, as depicted in a photograph of the B T & W Hawes soap and candle factory located on the south bank of the River Thames in London, circa 1842. The photograph offers a rare glimpse into the manufacturing process of the time, with workers intently focused on their tasks, their faces etched with determination and concentration. The heart of the factory is the row of soap-boiling coppers, large, iron cauldrons filled with simmering soap mixture. The workers, mostly women, are dressed in simple, practical clothing, their hands protected by leather aprons. They stir the bubbling pots with long wooden spoons, their faces shielded by handkerchiefs to protect against the steam. The candle-making process is also in full swing, with workers shaping and trimming candles at long tables. The interior of the factory is dimly lit, with only occasional shafts of sunlight filtering in through the windows, casting long shadows over the workers and their machinery. Despite the industrious atmosphere, conditions in the factory were far from ideal. Long hours, low wages, and dangerous working conditions were commonplace, with workers often exposed to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. Yet, the workers continued to toil, driven by the need to provide for themselves and their families. This photograph provides a poignant reminder of the human cost of the Industrial Revolution, and the sacrifices made by the working class in the pursuit of progress and prosperity.
MADE IN AUSTRALIA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
