This pop-up display by Mark, one of our volunteers, looks at depictions of Victorian and Edwardian tradesmen.
Tradesmen have always used illustrations of their services and wares as advertising. They were quick to use photography as it became cheaper and easier to use.
Tradesmen adopted picture postcards when they were introduced into Britain in 1894. Images included shops, premises and vehicles as well as the goods and services they provided.
Here is a small selection of postcards, cartes-de-visite and cabinets from the Jill Grey Collection showing cards which would usually be sent by tradesman.
Portraits of men from various occupations produced by professional photographers for the sitter’s use offer insights into costume.
See this exhibition, located in the Edwardian Classroom.