[George Gordon (?)] 1843 - 1847

This calotype portrait, created by the Scottish photographers David Octavius Hill and Robert Adamson, captures a young man, possibly George Gordon, in a moment of contemplation. The image showcases the pioneering use of the calotype process, which was known for its soft, diffused light and rich tonal range. The subject's thoughtful expression, captured with remarkable detail, exemplifies the ability of early photography to convey human emotion. This image is an important example of the development of portraiture in photography, as it exemplifies the medium's potential to capture human subjects in a naturalistic and engaging way.