Identification of Haddenham photo

[patDEN]

I would appreciate your expertise in dating this photo which was copied and distributed to all attending the 1938 Ricketts Reunion in Haddenham Bucks. This copy of the photo is a post-card replication.  While Ricketts researchers cannot identify the sitter, we believe he is an important figure in our history and would all like it to be John Ricketts [1801-1879] labourer and later malster of Haddenham and Aylesbury Bucks.

Many thanks
Pat

[jim1]

Probably 1860's but could be into the 70's.
Looks around 70 so could easily be your man.

[patDEN]

Thanks Jim, very much.  You have given us hope.  Do you think it is a "studio portrait?"  I am very distracted by what looks like rubbish scattered around on the floor.

Your time and efforts much appreciated.
Regards
Pat

[jim1]

It does looks like it's been taken outdoors which would be unusual with an added backdrop.
You can see the light is above which you wouldn't have in a studio.
Booth photos were an 1880's/90's trend so someone's gone to a lot of trouble.

[patDEN]

Thanks Jim ... we have agonised over this photo for years so your suggestions are all new considerations for us ... e.g. I had not noticed the light source before.  We thought the pose of the sitter was unusual  ... sideways and the surroundings did not suggest a formal studio environment, but the idea that it was perhaps outside or in a booth-like situation is new food for thought.

Again, your time is appreciated.

Regards
Pat

[Jayhen6]

What an interesting photograph... Difficult to pin down an exact date but agree with the age of the sitter. The man appears to be at work judging by his clothing and would appear to be a manual worker. (Large hands) He appears to be sat on a 19th century adjustable piano stool and may be at a place of work (debris on floor) or as Jim says posed outdoors to give the appearance of being engaged in his work as a 'labourer'... he's certainly not wearing his Sunday best!..

John

[patDEN]

Thank you for your thoughts, John. They have sent me off on another path!  When John Ricketts was 70 years old he was working as a Maltster's Labourer [1871 Census] at the Malt House in Haddenham.  This Malt House is still standing [private residence] and is a substantial building.  I am now wondering if the photo was taken inside the Malt House ... his place of work, and that the wooden panelling is within this building and not an imposed background as I originally supposed.

Thanks again ... more possibilities to consider!
Regards
Pat

[Ruskie]

Very interesting photograph. Pose is unusual. Photo taken by an enthusiastic amateur perhaps? (if there was such a thing in those days) 

[patDEN]

Thanks for your comments Ruskie ... I am wondering if perhaps there might have been "mobile" photographers who visited villages in England and photographed men at their places of work.  I have not heard of this, but I guess it is possible.

Appreciate your time and thoughts
regards
Pat