[Man and Boy] 1840 - 1842

"[Man and Boy]" is a calotype photograph by French artist Armand-Hippolyte-Louis Fizeau, created between 1840 and 1842. This early photographic portrait, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City, showcases the unique qualities of the calotype process, a photographic process that allowed for a greater range of tones and detail than previous techniques. The image captures a tender moment between two figures, highlighting the intimacy and naturalism achievable through this innovative method. The use of soft lighting and a simple composition further adds to the charm of this early example of photographic portraiture.