A closely observed mid-19th c. genre illustration, beautifully executed in graphite on wove paper. The sheet measures 12 5/8" x 17 1/8". Humorously depicted, a cobbler attempts to sell boots to an overparticular gentleman, as a cast of characters-- including a military hero with wooden legs, the cobbler's wife at work, and a barber peering through the window-- all watch in amusement. Through the window, the shop next door is seen to advertise "CORNS CUT," a service perhaps thriving because of ill-fitting footwear. The scene is nicely fleshed out with rich detail, including footwear, tools, personal effects, newspaper clippings, and a copy of The Observer. Inside the framing is a very old, partially obscured pencil notation, which appears to read "Drawn 1850 ECM [...] Jan 31st 18[]2 ECH". All original framing with the exception of vintage illustration board on which the sheet is mounted. The frame measures 19 3/4" x 24 1/4". Sheet not laid down, fastened to the mat with archival tape on the reverse to four corners. The sheet is in very good condition for the age, with mild toning and a couple of small spots. The drawing remains very crisp and clean. The frame has some veneer loss.