As one of the few examples of a larger industry and significant employer in Largo Parish, David Gillies Net Manufacturer holds a special place in local history. It's great that such a vibrant and attractive advertisement for the business was commissioned back in the 1880s. It not only depicts the works in great detail but also shows us how Gillies wanted the business to be portrayed....as a busy and successful enterprise, closely connected to the traditional fishing industry yet with modern facilities and close to the railway.
The central image (enlarged below) is an illustration of the whole site - comprising the factory on the right, Gillies's own home (Cardy House) at the top, Cardy Cottage on the left and the bowling green in the centre. The net factory was originally smaller than shown below and was extended north some years after its 1867 construction. Note the distinctive fish-shaped roof vents which can be seen on the factory roof.
The central image (enlarged below) is an illustration of the whole site - comprising the factory on the right, Gillies's own home (Cardy House) at the top, Cardy Cottage on the left and the bowling green in the centre. The net factory was originally smaller than shown below and was extended north some years after its 1867 construction. Note the distinctive fish-shaped roof vents which can be seen on the factory roof.
The creation of this poster and other printed materials eg trade cards was essential to promote the business. Gillies had attended the International Fisheries Exhibition in Edinburgh in 1882, along with his employees (see illustration). No doubt events such as this would have highlighted the need to properly promote the company.
The poster was probably created around 1885. Further detail from the artwork can be seen below - including a traditionally clad fisher woman and man. The woman is pictured with an east coast style creel. Solidly woven at the sides with an accompanying 'skull' (a circular frame basket that sat on top of the creel) this was all made of salt water resistant cane. When full these could weigh up to 55kg and a head strap was used in order to support the weight.
Of course, we now know that the business declined not long after the creation of the poster. However, the illustration continues to be enjoyed as a piece of art in its own right.
The poster was probably created around 1885. Further detail from the artwork can be seen below - including a traditionally clad fisher woman and man. The woman is pictured with an east coast style creel. Solidly woven at the sides with an accompanying 'skull' (a circular frame basket that sat on top of the creel) this was all made of salt water resistant cane. When full these could weigh up to 55kg and a head strap was used in order to support the weight.
Of course, we now know that the business declined not long after the creation of the poster. However, the illustration continues to be enjoyed as a piece of art in its own right.
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