Fotoalbum met 43 foto's, Spaans en Cubaans 1860 - 1900

This photo album, with its 43 Spanish and Cuban photographs, was made at an unknown date by an anonymous artist. Notice how the album's cover, crafted from leather and embellished with metal accents, speaks to a blend of craft traditions and luxury consumption. The tooling on the leather, with its careful lines and ridges, contrasts with the smooth, dyed surface, creating a tactile experience that invites touch. The addition of metal – perhaps brass or a similar alloy – in the form of floral motifs and a central medallion, suggests not only a decorative impulse but also a desire to elevate the object beyond mere utility. Consider the labor involved in producing such an item. The tanning and dyeing of the leather, the meticulous tooling, and the application of metalwork all point to specialized skills and a significant investment of time. What does it tell us about the owner of this object? This album challenges our assumptions about the hierarchy of art and craft, inviting us to consider the social and cultural significance embedded within everyday objects.