La Dogaresse 1861 - 1867

"La Dogaresse" is a carte-de-visite photograph taken by French photographer Pierre-Louis Pierson between 1861 and 1867. The image depicts a woman, likely an actress, dressed in an elaborate costume featuring a lace veil, a large bow, and a jeweled brooch. This photograph, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, is a fine example of the carte-de-visite format popular in the 19th century. These small, standardized photographs were widely exchanged as keepsakes, capturing portraits of everyday people and famous personalities alike. Pierson, a renowned photographer of his time, used masterful lighting and composition to create a striking portrait that highlights the sitter's beauty and the details of her attire.