There’s some incredible detail in this colourised photo of Cork’s Coal Quay from 1900
It was the centre of retail in Cork.
Now a digital artist has added colour to an ancient photograph of Cork’s Coal Quay from 1900, bringing it to life in a whole new way.
The image, created and shared by Rob Cross and originally part of the Lawrence Collection in the National Library of Ireland, has been enthralling Twitter users.
Bringing Ireland’s History to Life.🥕🛏️🪑🧥
My restored and colourised 1900 photo of a bustling Market Street (now Cornmarket Street) in Cork City.
Original photo part of the Lawrence Collection, @NLIreland.
Street View🧐https://t.co/6Bmfij2tmB#Cork #Ireland #History #DeOldify pic.twitter.com/Ty4RbCZk4C— Rob Cross (@RobCross247) March 15, 2020
Shawlies stand by their vegetable stalls in the foreground, where beds, chairs and other furniture are stacked up for sale in the bustling market.
Beyond them, baskets are piled high and people chat and agree on prices for a variety of other items, while a cart-horse stands patiently waiting for its owner in the background.
Another group of women huddle together in a circle, either praying or holding a meeting.
A team meeting or prayers?🙏 pic.twitter.com/tJAIZw2PvJ
— Rob Cross (@RobCross247) March 15, 2020
Of course, The Bodega, which occupies the building to the lower left of this image, is closed for now to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
As the city gets to grips with the new normal in the wake of the current coronavirus restrictions, it’s reassuring to know that Cork people have survived major upheaval before and we will do so again.
