Trade Card for J. Hasler, Writing & Historical Engraver 1800 - 1900

This is a trade card for J. Hasler, a writing and historical engraver and copperplate lithographic printer in Bolton. Though anonymous, its creation speaks to the burgeoning commercial culture of its time. Consider that in this period, trades relied heavily on marketing to gain visibility. This card, with its ornate typography and decorative flourishes, reflects a desire to present a respectable and skilled image. Bolton, as an industrial town, surely had a high demand for printed materials, from invoices to ornamental tickets. The card promises services for "plain, gold, silver, bronze" items, indicating a broad clientele. The card is a tangible piece of social history, reflecting a world where personal connection and local business were vital. It invites us to consider the labor and identity of its maker.