Les livreurs de farine (Delivering flour)

Returning to the tradition of depicting working-class trades in Paris, Carrier-Belleuse pays tribute to the forts à farine (flour strongmen), cargo handlers who were tasked with transporting flour from the wheat exchange stores to the capital's boulangeries.

Their physical appearance made them recognizable at a glance. The singlet, which protected their kidneys without inhibiting movement. The cane, which helped them keep their balance.

The coltin (a large leather hat with a wide brim and a lead cap) enabled them to carry sacks weighing nearly 353 pounds (160 kg).

They are depicted here in the middle of a job.