Taking Advantage of Leap Year 1860 - 1901

This stereoscopic photograph, titled "Taking Advantage of Leap Year," was produced by Anthony and Company in the late 19th century, using albumen prints mounted on card stock. Stereoscopic images like this one were all the rage at the time, offering viewers a convincing illusion of three-dimensionality. The process itself was an interesting blend of science, technology, and artistry. Two nearly identical photographs were taken simultaneously and then mounted side by side. When viewed through a stereoscope, the brain would merge the images, creating a sense of depth. The material qualities of the albumen print contribute to its unique appearance: a subtle warmth and richness, along with a smooth, almost polished surface. It's a far cry from the instant gratification of today's digital photography, and speaks to the labor and expertise required to produce such images. Photography, then, wasn't just a means of capturing reality; it was a crafted commodity, produced and consumed within the social and economic context of the time.