Man Cook

'Man Cook' is how S. Baker of Priory Street advertised himself and his baking skills in 1885. This was probably a brave move for a man at the end of the 19th century when male and female roles, and their hierachy, were highly defined.

The illustrations in the ad are interesting as the feminised decorative cake topped with a floral display, is counteracted on the opposite side with a the masculine strength of a wild boars head. I wondered if it was worth considering if this 'Man Cook' worked for Tonbridge School, which could explain the use of a boars head, but I think that's unlikely as he would have proudly displayed the whole crest.  It's more likey the that his baking and dinner party skills are being visually balanced.

What a fabulous ad!!!!

Geo. Tonbridge 1885