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Very tatty sandwichboard man advertises smart Gents suits
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Very tatty sandwichboard man advertises smart Gents suits
Visual irony of a very tatty sandwich board man advertising a Gentleman Tailor and his smart suits, retailing for 12/6. Date: circa 1890s
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 11574849
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Advertises Amused Amusement Dirty Gents Ironic Irony Juxtaposition Londoner Phil Poor Ragged Scenario Smart Suits Tailor Tailors Tatty Tomkins Urchin Sandwichboard
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EDITORS COMMENTS
In this intriguing photograph from the 1890s, a tatty and ragged sandwich board man advertises the wares of Tomkins Tailors, purveyors of smart gents suits, priced at a shilling and sixpence. The scene unfolds on the bustling streets of London, where the juxtaposition of the man's threadbare attire and the elegant suits he promotes creates a striking contrast. The man's appearance is a study in poverty and grime, with his tattered clothes, unkempt beard, and weary expression. His sandwich board, bearing the bold lettering of Tomkins Tailors, is a stark reminder of the sharp divide between the haves and the have-nots in Victorian society. Yet, there is an undeniable air of amusement and irony about the scene. The man's ragged appearance, combined with the high-end suits he is advertising, is a clever use of visual irony that would have amused and entertained onlookers. The photograph captures the spirit of the era, with its gritty urban realism and social commentary. The urchin-like figure of the sandwich board man adds to the sense of fun and humour, making for a scene that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. This historical snapshot offers a glimpse into the past, reminding us of the rich tapestry of life in London during the late 19th century.
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