Strawberry Pedlar 1870

William P. Chappel made this watercolor called “Strawberry Pedlar”. The artwork gives us an interesting look at the social fabric of early 19th-century America. With its simple composition and muted tones, this painting depicts a common scene of a pedlar, a travelling salesman, making his way through what looks like a provincial street with his wares. The presence of the pedlar, along with other figures like the woman by the picket fence, speaks to the social and economic structure of the time. The contrast between the residential buildings and the industrial building behind could also represent the changing social environment. To truly understand this artwork, one might consult historical records, such as city directories, census data, and trade publications. These resources can provide valuable insights into the lives of ordinary people and the economic activities of the time, shedding light on the historical context of the artwork and its significance within the broader social landscape.