Portret van Elie Berthet 1861 - 1867

"Portret van Elie Berthet" is a photographic print created by Carjat et Cie. This image offers us a glimpse into the visual culture of the 19th century, a period marked by the rise of photography and its role in shaping social identities. Consider the sitter, Elie Berthet. His dress and pose reflect the conventions of bourgeois masculinity, a carefully constructed image of respectability and status. Photography at this time was not just about capturing a likeness; it was about performing and solidifying one's place in the social hierarchy. How might Berthet have felt, presenting himself to the camera, aware of the social implications embedded in this new medium? And what of the photographer? Carjat et Cie. were part of a growing industry, democratizing portraiture while simultaneously reinforcing societal norms. This image speaks to the complex interplay between individual identity and the broader cultural forces at play during this transformative era. It is a testament to the power of photography to both reflect and shape our understanding of ourselves and others.