Rosa Corder Possibly 1880

Richard Josey created this photogravure titled "Rosa Corder" using a photographic process on chine paper. The image captures Corder in profile, her gaze directed beyond the frame, embodying the Victorian era's complex notions of femininity and representation. Consider the social role of women during the late 19th century. Confined by expectations of domesticity and decorum, women's identities were often shaped by societal constraints. Josey's portrayal, while seemingly traditional, hints at a deeper narrative. The choice to depict Corder in profile, averting direct eye contact, speaks to the subtle ways in which women navigated and negotiated their visibility within patriarchal structures. The elaborate dress and accessories, while indicative of status, also underscore the performative aspects of femininity. Through the lens of contemporary theory, this work invites us to consider the power dynamics inherent in portraiture, and the ways in which gender, class, and identity intersect to shape our understanding of the sitter. This image offers not just a glimpse into the past, but an opportunity to reflect on the ongoing dialogues around representation and selfhood.