The Madame B Album c. 1870s

"The Madame B Album" is a photographic album created by Marie-Blanche Hennelle Fournier, a prominent photographer active in the 1870s. The album features a collection of portraits arranged in a unique diamond-shaped pattern, each image is presented in an oval frame tied with twine, adding a sense of intimacy and nostalgia. The album captures the essence of 19th-century portraiture, showcasing the artistry of Fournier and offering a glimpse into the lives of the individuals who were photographed. The album currently resides in The Art Institute of Chicago and is a testament to the enduring power of portraiture as a form of historical documentation and artistic expression.