Untitled (Portrait of a Bearded Man with Hat) 1840 - 1900

This small portrait of a bearded man with a hat, whose maker is unknown, invites us to consider the intimate and often anonymous nature of early photography. The image, a 'carte de visite,' presents a man who appears to be of the working class, possibly a farmer or artisan. His stern gaze and simple attire speak to a life of labor and a particular cultural identity. What is striking about this photograph is that it was likely relatively affordable to produce. Photography was becoming more accessible to a broader segment of society, not just the wealthy elite, which democratized portraiture in ways never seen before. This portrait is a touching example of the intersection of identity, class, and representation, capturing a moment in the life of an ordinary individual, and preserving it for posterity. It is a moving reminder of the diverse stories that make up the human experience.