Rose Massey 1869 - 1874

This carte de visite, a popular format for photographic portraits in the 19th century, depicts Rose Massey, a prominent actress. Taken by Jeremiah Gurney, a renowned photographer in New York City, between 1869 and 1874, it shows Massey in a simple, elegant pose, her gaze directed downwards, creating an air of intimacy and introspection. The photograph's sharp detail and subtle use of light capture Massey's refined features and graceful demeanor, highlighting her status as a celebrated performer. This image, now part of the Minneapolis Institute of Art's collection, offers a glimpse into the world of 19th-century theater and the enduring artistry of photographic portraiture.