Le transformisme / Sic transit 1891

Louis Ducos Du Hauron created this cyanotype print, “Le transformisme / Sic transit,” using an early photographic process that results in a distinctive blue image. Born in France during a period of immense social and technological change, Ducos Du Hauron was one of the pioneers of color photography. “Le transformisme / Sic transit” translates to “Transformism / Thus passes.” It reflects the anxieties and fascinations of the 19th century with evolution and the ephemeral nature of life. What we see is a play with form and light that evokes a sense of constant change. The swirling, almost dreamlike quality of the image invites contemplation on identity and the passage of time. Ducos du Hauron captures the transient and fluid nature of existence. His work embodies a deep emotional resonance. It asks us to consider how we adapt and transform in response to our ever-changing world.