Cobbler 1870s

"Cobbler" is a hand-colored albumen print by Suzuki Shin'ichi, created in the 1870s, depicting a Japanese cobbler at work. The photograph captures the artisan in his humble setting, surrounded by his tools, materials, and finished products, offering a glimpse into daily life in 19th-century Japan. The detailed depiction of the cobbler's craft, from the tools he uses to the sandals he creates, showcases Suzuki Shin'ichi's keen eye for capturing the intricacies of everyday life. This photograph is an example of a genre called "street photography" and was taken during a period when Japan was undergoing significant social and political changes, offering insights into traditional Japanese crafts and lifestyles. The photograph is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection in New York City.