What is a pauper prentice?

A pauper prentice refers to a poor or destitute apprentice, typically a young person who is learning a trade or skill from a master craftsman or tradesman. In the past, pauper apprentices were indentured servants who worked for their master in exchange for room, board, and instruction in a specific trade. They often came from low-income or disadvantaged backgrounds and worked under harsh conditions for little or no pay.