Vues photographiques du château et dépendances du parc des Marlagnes à Wépion 1867

This is the title page of an album of photographs, made by the firm Ghémar Frères. It's a fascinating insight into the technology of image-making at the time. The photographic process involved coating paper with light-sensitive chemicals, exposing it in a camera obscura, and then developing the image. This was highly skilled and laborious, and the end result was a positive print. The paper itself also mattered, influencing the contrast and tone of the final photograph. What makes this album particularly interesting is its status as a luxury product. Photography, while becoming more accessible, was still associated with wealth and status. The album format suggests an attempt to elevate photography to the level of fine art, akin to a collection of paintings or drawings. In a world rapidly being transformed by industrialization, it's a reminder of the artistry and labor involved in early photography.