Mrs. Rachael Gurney ("May God Bring Father Safely Home", "Three Fishers Went Sailing Into the Deep") c. 1872 - 1874

"Mrs. Rachael Gurney" is a poignant photograph by Julia Margaret Cameron from c. 1872-1874. Cameron's work is known for its soft focus and dramatic lighting, creating an almost ethereal effect. This particular image portrays a mother and her young daughter, their faces illuminated as they gaze at each other, reflecting the deep bond between them. Cameron, known for her focus on domesticity and female strength, captures a moment of intimacy and unspoken emotion, resonating with viewers across generations. The image's title, “May God Bring Father Safely Home,” alludes to the anxieties of a family separated by the sea, suggesting a universal theme of longing and hope that resonates across cultures and time periods.