Portret van Henry Wadsworth Longfellow before 1882

This portrait of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow is a photograph, probably made in the mid-19th century. While we don't know the photographer's name, we can certainly consider the material and social context in which this object was produced. Photography in this era involved complex chemical processes, requiring both technical skill and an artistic eye for composition and lighting. The resulting image, printed on paper, was a relatively accessible means of portraiture, but still carried considerable social weight, given the labor involved in its production. Consider how Longfellow, a celebrated poet, would have been conscious of his public image. He presents himself here in a way that conveys both dignity and approachability. The photograph itself, as a material object, became part of the construction of his persona. It testifies to the democratization of image-making in the 19th century, even while capturing a man of considerable status. It reminds us that all forms of making, even those involving new technologies, are deeply intertwined with social and cultural values.