The "Crawlers" 1877

John Thomson's "The 'Crawlers'" is a poignant 1877 albumen print that captures the harsh realities of Victorian London. The image depicts a woman sitting on a step, her face etched with hardship as she cradles a small child, likely a "crawler" - a child too young to work. The scene speaks to the poverty and social issues plaguing the city, showcasing Thomson's commitment to social documentary photography.