Nederlandse afdeling in de International Exhibition Philadelphia, 1876 1876

This albumen print was made in 1876 by the Centennial Photographic Company, capturing the Dutch exhibit at Philadelphia’s International Exhibition. Photography itself was a marvel of industrial chemistry. Albumen, derived from egg whites, was meticulously coated on paper, fixing the photographic image with unprecedented clarity. This process highlights the shift towards mass production and the commodification of art. Look closely, and you'll notice the intricate displays showcasing Dutch public works. These structures, likely prefabricated, reflect industrial standardization meeting national pride. The photograph’s crisp detail allows us to consider the labor involved—from the photographers managing large format cameras, to the skilled laborers constructing the exhibits. The image invites us to think about how industrialization and national identity were carefully curated for public consumption. Photography was both an art and a crucial tool in shaping perceptions of progress. By examining this image, we consider how photography democratized art and also served the interests of industry and national representation.