Ceramic Blacking bottle, 19th century.

Social History (Museum of St Albans)

Blacking was used on kitchen ranges and the grates of fireplaces in Victorian times. Mrs Beetons’ Book of Household Management (Chancellor Press, 1982 Edition) gives the following instructions under “Duties of the Housemaid”: “The cinders disposed of, she proceeds to black-lead the grate, producing the black-lead, the soft brush for laying it on, her blacking and polishing brushes, from the box which contains her tools. This housemaid’s box should be kept well stocked. Having blackened, brushed and polished every part, and made all clean and bright, she now proceeds to lay the fire. ”Mrs Beeton recommends a blacking made of asphalt, linseed oil and turpentine.

135 transparency

Kate Warren

1) Photo Studio

[not applicable].