Samuel Allen McCoskry 1862

Curator: Editor: This is an albumen print, "Samuel Allen McCoskry" from 1862 by Jeremiah Gurney. It seems to capture a man of authority, his gaze quite direct. What strikes you when you look at this portrait? Curator: The portrait resonates with a specific historical tension. Knowing that McCoskry was a Bishop of Michigan, consecrated in Philadelphia before the Civil War, invites reflection on the role of religious institutions in perpetuating or challenging societal norms related to race and class at the time. How does this context inform our understanding of his seemingly steadfast gaze? Editor: So you're suggesting his portrait is more than just a representation of an individual; it embodies the power structures of his time? Curator: Precisely. Photography in the 19th century was itself a developing technology, used often to solidify social standing. What does it mean to have a portrait taken when that act is only available to certain individuals? And, as Bishop of Michigan, what were McCoskry's stances on the major political issues bubbling to the surface during this time? Editor: It’s fascinating to consider how his position and the act of portraiture intersect with these broader social and political currents. Curator: Considering these factors, we see the portrait as a reflection of a man embedded within a complex web of power, religion, and emerging technologies. Do you think this approach enriches our understanding of this image? Editor: Definitely. Thinking about the historical backdrop and McCoskry's potential influence adds a new layer of depth. I had only considered the face, the mood, and now I see the much bigger picture! Curator: I am glad to have brought these issues to light.