Richard Montague (1853-1895) 1874 - 1875

Curator: This is a portrait of Richard Montague, dating to around 1895, by William Notman. It's a small albumen print, a very common photographic process at the time. Editor: The sepia tones lend it a feeling of serious formality, almost austere in its presentation of upper-class masculinity. Curator: Precisely. Notman's studio was known for its efficient, almost industrial approach to portraiture. He streamlined the process, creating these affordable yet dignified images for a burgeoning middle class. Editor: It’s fascinating how these portraits, seemingly ubiquitous, served to solidify social hierarchies, visually reinforcing notions of respectability and success, especially related to the industrial-era gender dynamics. Curator: Absolutely. The repetitive nature of production and consumption speaks to the standardization of identity itself through material culture. Editor: It also makes me consider who could afford a portrait like this, and who was excluded from this type of visual representation. Curator: A crucial point to consider! The act of being portrayed was far from a universal experience. Editor: It’s a thought-provoking window into that era. Curator: Indeed, a seemingly simple image, yet rich with socio-economic information.