Dimensions: height 100 mm, width 60 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
This photograph of a young girl, possibly Else Wachenheimer-Moos, was made with the silver gelatin process. The final image is printed on a paper card, complete with the studio's branding. Consider the photographer's role as a skilled practitioner, navigating the science and artistry of image-making. The success of firms like Th. Andersen's relied not only on technical skill, but also on the establishment of trust with their clientele. These images had to capture the essence of the sitter, and be aesthetically pleasing. As photography became more accessible, it transformed from a scientific curiosity to a booming commercial industry, reshaping notions of portraiture. What was once reserved for the wealthy in painted form became available to a broader segment of the population. With the rise of photography, a new visual language emerged, capturing fleeting moments, and reflecting the changing social landscape. By considering its materials, making, and context, we recognize photography's profound impact on art, culture, and commerce, challenging traditional notions about fine art and craft.
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