Painting Description

A fixture in Southwest London, the Pearlies are always represented at any public event, such as the Queen’s Golden Jubilee. The Pearlies grew out of an imitation of the suits worn by the Coster Mongers. These rough market traders wore buttons on their suits to distinguish themselves from other market traders. The Pearlies took this button decoration several steps farther and used their bizarre outfits to gain attention and raise money for charity. The man on the left is a doorman at 51 Buckingham Gate, a swish hotel.

This image is available for Licensing. Contact Cynthia [email protected] for inquiries.