Minstrel Banjo

For enthusiasts of early banjo

No banjo content, but interesting nonetheless. I just acquired this carte-de-visite of a "clown" playing Irish pipes, circa 1860s. He certainly could have played in the same houses as minstrel performers. Apart from that, this is the earliest photograph of uilleann pipes that I've seen.

Views: 115

Comment by Ian Bell on June 8, 2014 at 9:25pm
Wow - this is going directly to a couple of my piper friends. Thanks for posting.
Comment by Strumelia on June 8, 2014 at 9:46pm

It sorta looks more like traditional folk dress to me, even with the socks.  Is the country of origin certain?

Comment by Bob Sayers on June 8, 2014 at 10:15pm

Actually, I bought the photo from a seller in Britain (he gave his location as the "Sussex Coast").  So my CDV is probably from the UK, which makes sense.   On the other hand, I've seen a CDV of an "Irish jester" in New York City and a second CDV of two "musical clowns" in Australia, all wearing similar outfits, including the peaked hats.  So this is likely circus or stage attire from the 1860s or 1870s.    

Comment by Bob Sayers on June 8, 2014 at 10:34pm

Second thought:  Stumelia is right.  This could be "Irish" stage dress of the period, whether in Ireland, Australia, or America.   

Comment by Ian Bell on July 3, 2014 at 11:24am

It really isn't any more outrageous than the women's outfits worn for "traditional" Irish step-dancing today.

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