[Self-Portrait in Eastern Costume] 1851 - 1852

This 1851-52 calotype by Charles Nègre depicts the artist in a self-portrait wearing an Eastern costume, likely inspired by his travels to North Africa. Nègre was a pioneer in the field of photography and actively explored the technical capabilities of the medium. The photograph is a striking example of the artistic potential of early photography, showcasing Nègre's skill in composition, lighting, and the use of detail. The image's composition with the figure standing against the backdrop of a doorway and the textured surface of the steps adds depth and perspective to the self-portrait. This photograph, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, is a testament to Nègre's artistic vision and his contribution to the development of photography as an art form.