Nederlandse slee 1850 - 1900

This is Médéric Mieusement's photograph of a Dutch sleigh, probably taken sometime in the late 19th century. It's an albumen print, a process that renders incredible detail, and suggests a careful orchestration. Look closely, and you'll see this photograph offers more than just a record of an object. The sleigh itself is remarkable, ornately carved and upholstered, betraying a high degree of craftsmanship. It is clearly intended for display as much as for practical use. The photographer has clearly considered the relationship between the object, the craft that went into it, and the social context in which it existed. The very act of photographing the sleigh elevates it, transforming it from a mere mode of transportation into a cultural artifact. Mieusement challenges conventional notions about art, blurring the lines between documentation and artistic interpretation, inviting us to reflect on the labor and status inherent in this luxurious object.