Description
Photograph, 'Broom peddler', black and white, silver gelatin print, by Hedda Morrison, Peking, China, 1933-1946. The image shows a young man in a fur hat pushing cart of brooms. The young man carries a stick and is striking a gourd to attract customers. Behind him is a wall on which graffitti in Chinese characters can be seen.

Significance statement
In Old Peking, peddlers and craftspeople relied on calling out to attract trade. But there were some who didn’t use their voice but rather the sound of a particular instrument to identify their trade. For example the knife sharpener blew a trumpet and the broom peddler struck a gourd.

Production notes
This is one of a large number of photographs that were taken by Hedda Morrison (1908-1991) during her years of residence in Peking (Beijing), China 1933-1946.

Credit line
Gift of Mr Alastair Morrison, 1992

Registration number
92/1414-244