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General view of an Alum works in the Whitby area. From George Walker The Costume
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General view of an Alum works in the Whitby area. From George Walker The Costume
General view of an Alum works in the Whitby area. From George Walker The Costume of Yorkshire Leeds 1814, Aquatint. Steeping calcined (burnt) shale in water in pits produce raw alum liquor which would be gravity fed to processing plant where it would be refined and boiled until alum crystals produced. These were important as a mordant (fixer) in textile dyeing industry
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Media ID 9784615
© Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group
1814 Aquatint Area Boiled Burnt Chemical Costume Crystals General George Gravity Important Industry Leeds Plant Processing Produce Produced Refined Shale Textile View Walker Whitby Works Yorkshire Alum Dyeing Liquor Pits Steeping
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures a general view of an Alum works in the picturesque Whitby area. Taken from George Walker's renowned publication, "The Costume of Yorkshire Leeds 1814" this aquatint showcases the fascinating process behind producing raw alum liquor - a crucial component in Britain's textile dyeing industry during that era. Intriguingly, the image depicts workers steeping calcined shale in water-filled pits, initiating a chemical reaction that yields the valuable alum liquor. This precious liquid would then be gravity fed to a nearby processing plant where it underwent refinement and boiling until magnificent alum crystals were formed. These crystals held immense importance as mordants or fixers within the textile dyeing industry. Their role was to enhance colorfastness by binding dyes to fabrics effectively. As such, they played an indispensable part in creating vibrant and long-lasting textiles. With its historical significance and industrial charm, this print offers us a glimpse into England's rich manufacturing heritage. It reminds us of the intricate processes involved in transforming natural resources into essential materials for various industries. Moreover, it serves as a testament to human ingenuity and innovation throughout history. As we admire this remarkable scene captured by George Walker over two centuries ago, we are transported back to an era when craftsmanship and resourcefulness shaped Britain's industrial landscape.
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