I love an old occupational photo--nothing like pride in profession on full display--but have seen enough that it takes a really great one to stop me, which I think this one is. (See details.) An incredible array of faces, for sure (what a cast of characters!) but this gang of shoemakers went full out to showcase their labors for this photograph, holding a variety of shoe forms and staining brushes of and wearing aprons so stained I thought at first glance they were butchers! Their serious expressions, not a smile among them, coupled with rolled up sleeves and exposed biceps, amplifies a sense of fierce intensity; not a job for the faint of heart! Wonderful.
10" x 8 1/16" as mounted (original mount), photo 7 5/8" x 4 5/8". Excellent condition, with the name of the photographer, A.E. Alden, 63 Court St., Boston, printed on reverse. A little research turns up more about Augustus Ephraim Alden (1837-1914)- here's a link to some info on the NY Public Library website.
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