Le Grand Russe 1860s

"Le Grand Russe" is a portrait photograph taken in the 1860s by French photographer Pierre-Louis Pierson. The image, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, features a young boy standing against a simple backdrop, his posture and attire conveying a sense of formality and restraint. The image captures a popular subject of the time, capturing the innocence and vulnerability of childhood. Pierson's use of lighting and detail bring a sense of realism to the photograph, making it a fascinating glimpse into the past. This small-scale work (9.8 x 13.3 cm) exemplifies the artistic advancements in photography during the 19th century.