Untitled c. 1930 - 1935

This photograph was taken by Toni von Horn, though we don’t have the exact date. It’s a gelatin silver print, which was a popular photographic process at the time, valued for its fine detail and tonal range. The image captures a stylish woman in what appears to be a hand-made dress. The dress is decorated with a highly textured pattern, possibly crocheted or knitted, displaying a remarkable amount of labor. It shows the material’s potential for intricate three-dimensionality, which contrasts with the flat surface of the photograph itself. The choice of gelatin silver printing also hints at broader social dynamics. It was a relatively accessible medium, and one employed by many women artists and designers. While the sitter exudes an air of luxury, the homespun quality of the dress and the photographic process itself offer a more nuanced narrative, perhaps hinting at resourcefulness during economically challenging times. It shows the potential to find ways to demonstrate taste and artistry in any context.