Byers’ Choice Ltd. Vintage “The Carolers” The Cries of London 1997

Named for their vocal means of advertising, pictures of the "Cries of London" date back as early as the 1500's. Each vendor specialized in peddling a specific product or service on the streets of town. Everything from bread and produce to coal and matches could be purchased from these boisterous characters. One particular "crier" in 19th Century London could even be hired to rid your home of rats. Vendors would often deliver their sales pitch in the form of a poem or song in order to gather more attention. The sales of each individual's goods or services and volume of his or her Rhymes such as Hot Cross Buns can be attributed to these colorful individuals. Those particular crier features a double layered plaid fabric dress, green felt vest, white blouse, red tasseled shawl, felt bonnet with ribbon carrying two metal canisters of milk. Stored neatly throughout the years and in very good condition! Signed and dated on back of base. For more than 40 years, Byers' Choice has been dedicated to bringing you the finest handcrafted gifts with the iconic Caroler® figurines. Every Caroler is lovingly handmade in our facility in Pennsylvania to bring the special warmth and traditions of Christmas into your home.