[Erskine Nicol] 1860s

This photographic portrait of Erskine Nicol was made by John and Charles Watkins in the mid-19th century. It reflects a moment when photography was becoming increasingly accessible, yet portraiture retained a special status in representing individuals of note. Nicol, here pictured in a conventional pose with his signature, was a Scottish genre painter known for his depictions of Irish life. The choice of photography as a medium speaks to its growing acceptance within artistic circles, challenging traditional hierarchies of artistic representation. The Watkins studio itself played a role in shaping Victorian photographic portraiture, catering to a clientele that included artists, actors, and other public figures. To understand this image, it's vital to research the art market of the time. What was the relationship between photography and painting? How did institutions like the Royal Academy shape artistic careers? These are the questions we, as historians, seek to answer. By consulting period sources, we can contextualize this image and appreciate its place within a changing artistic landscape.