Davidson of Aberdeen 1843 - 1847

Davidson of Aberdeen was made around 1843 in Scotland, by the pioneering photography duo Hill and Adamson. The image comes from a time when photography was emerging as both a scientific tool and a form of artistic expression. In this salt print, we see Davidson, a figure whose life and identity are somewhat veiled to us now, yet preserved in this early photographic moment. There is a certain stillness, almost a melancholy, in the way he holds his cane and averts his gaze. His posture and attire speak to a certain social standing, while his expression hints at the weight of time and experience. Hill and Adamson were known for their ability to capture the character of their sitters, and here, they seem to have caught a glimpse into Davidson’s inner world. The photograph serves as a meditation on identity, aging, and the passage of time. It leaves us pondering the stories of those often overlooked by history, inviting empathy and connection across the boundaries of time.