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An East End Rag-and-Bone Man with his wagon
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An East End Rag-and-Bone Man with his wagon
An East End Rag-and-Bone Man with his wagon - Crockery is offered as an alternative to cash. Date: circa 1940
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 11558457
© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Bone Driver Driving Pony Profession Rags Scraps Trader Wagon
EDITORS COMMENTS
In this evocative photograph, an East End rag-and-bone man proudly stands next to his horse-drawn wagon, displaying a selection of crockery and household items for sale. The year is circa 1940, and the scene transports us back in time to an era when the horse and cart were still a common sight on the streets of London. The East End of London has long been known for its unique character and vibrant street life, and the rag-and-bone man was a familiar figure in this working-class community. These traders would collect unwanted items from households and businesses, sorting through the discards to sell on anything of value. Rags, scraps, and bones were the primary commodities, but items of value such as glassware, china, and metal were also sought after. The man in the photograph wears a worn, felt hat and a heavy, woolen coat, the signs of a life spent outdoors in all weather conditions. His pony, harnessed to the wagon, looks up at him with curious eyes. The wooden cart is piled high with a jumble of items, from ornate plates and cups to simple kitchen utensils. This image offers a glimpse into the past, a time when the circular economy was a way of life, and waste was seen as an opportunity rather than a problem. It is a reminder of the rich history and traditions of the East End, and the resilient spirit of its people. The use of cash was not always an option for these traders, and instead, they relied on the barter system, offering goods in exchange for other items. This photograph captures a moment in time, a snapshot of a profession that has largely disappeared from our urban landscapes but remains an important part of London's history.
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