Portret van Hector Viger before 1876

This is a photographic portrait of Hector Viger, made by Nadar in the 19th century. While photography might seem purely mechanical, consider the level of skill that was required. Nadar was a master of light, posing, and the chemistry of early photographic processes. Think of it as a kind of alchemy, coaxing an image into being through a complex series of actions. It's a long way away from simply pointing and shooting. Photography transformed portraiture, making images far more accessible than painted likenesses. This had a democratizing effect, yet the photographer's artistry remained crucial. Nadar, in particular, elevated photography to high art through his keen eye and technical mastery. So, when you look at this image, remember that it represents not just a person, but a moment in the history of both art and technology, and a shift in social possibilities too.