Even in modern times, you cannot walk down a street in Istanbul without seeing a man -- sometimes a man who looks to be into his 60s -- carrying an insane about of wares on his back.
This is the Hamal.
Porter, in English.
Tom Brosnahan's outstanding book Bright Sun, Strong Tea, chronicles his dealings with Hamals when his goods arrive on the shores of the Bosphorus.
This photo shows a gray-haired Hamal carrying a relatively light load up a steep back street not far from the Spice Bazaar.
These porters work in garment districts and others areas that require large loads to be carried up narrow passageways.
This photo shows a Hamal walking past a statue memorializing the Hamal, erected by the municipality of Fatih.
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