Unidentified beggar

Category

Library Item

Item no

14060

Title

Unidentified beggar

Description

A blind beggar stands in the road in Edinburgh's Old Town. He appears to be offering something for sale, perhaps matches, in his left hand. He is wearing a bowler hat, fingerless gloves and is leaning on a long cane. Shops and houses can be seen in the background.

Artist / maker

Unknown

Date

1880

Size

9.3 x 6.9 cm

Type

Photograph

Location

Edinburgh and Scottish Collection

The sight of blind people selling matches or laces, grinding barrel organs or reading from the bible to attract donations from passers-by was commonplace in 19th century Britain. In most areas little or no provision was made for the welfare of blind people beyond childhood, making recourse to these sources of income a necessity. It was not until the late 19th century that any significant efforts were made to provide employment for blind adults, and even then the developing network of workshops hardly provided good working conditions or adequate remuneration by modern standards.

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Related images

Related subjects

Clothing and dress > Accessories > Hats

Clothing and dress > Accessories > Walking sticks

People > Adults > Men

People > Commercial activities > Street traders

Places > Edinburgh areas > Old Town

Places > Scotland > Edinburgh

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