"Hookey Alf," of White Chapel 1881

John Thomson's "Hookey Alf, of Whitechapel" (1881) is a poignant photographic portrait of a street urchin from London's Whitechapel district. Captured in a candid moment, the image showcases Thomson's commitment to capturing the lives of the working class, a theme prominent in his "Street Life in London" series. The composition emphasizes the contrast between the child's innocence and the harsh realities of poverty. The inclusion of several other figures in the background adds depth to the scene, offering a glimpse into the social fabric of the time.