Honoré Daumier 

This is Félix Nadar’s photograph of Honoré Daumier. It belongs to the first generation of photography and demonstrates the materiality of the photographic process. Photography in Nadar’s time was not just about capturing an image; it was about chemistry, light, and the manipulation of materials. The texture of the metal plate, the subtle imperfections, and the tonal range achieved through chemical processes contribute to its unique aesthetic. Think about the labor involved in making this image. Every step, from preparing the chemicals to carefully posing the subject and developing the plate, required skill and precision. This contrasts with today’s digital photography, where images can be captured and altered instantly. Nadar's photograph reminds us that every image is the result of choices made by the artist, and the tools and materials they use. It challenges us to look beyond the surface and consider the rich layers of history and craft that are embedded within the photograph.