Untitled [bust portrait of a woman with lace collar] 1852 - 1858

This is an undated portrait of a woman with a lace collar, created by Jeremiah Gurney, who was active as a photographer in New York City during the mid-19th century. During this time, photography emerged as a powerful medium for portraiture, democratizing access to representation. Previously, only the wealthy could afford to have their likeness captured in a painting. Yet, this democratization occurred within strict social hierarchies, with photographic studios often catering to specific classes and communities. Here, the woman's gaze is direct, but her expression reserved. The lace collar and carefully styled hair speak to the conventions of feminine presentation at the time. The intimacy afforded by the small scale of the image speaks to the sitter's desire to hold a tangible object in her hands. Gurney’s studio played a crucial role in shaping visual culture, influencing how people saw themselves and others. This photograph offers a glimpse into the construction of identity during a pivotal moment in history, marked by shifting social norms and technological innovation.