Fritzi Massary 1920

Nicola Perscheid made this portrait photograph of Fritzi Massary, a famous soprano, sometime in the early 20th century. Look at the angle of her face, how her gaze is directed slightly off to the side – and she seems to be arching her back a little. I can imagine the photographer looking through the camera, and gesturing slightly, tilting his own head, saying, “Just a little more…yes, perfect!” I love the way the light falls across her face, and illuminates the details of her dress – each tiny bead seeming to reflect the light back at us. This reminds me of the portrait photography of Nadar. They are both seeking to capture the inner essence of the sitter through careful manipulation of light and shadow. I wonder if Perscheid saw himself in conversation with Nadar? Each artist building on the other’s techniques and insights, pushing the boundaries of the medium. You never know what can inspire you.