Lady of Charlotte 1901

Frank Eugene made this platinum print photograph, Lady of Charlotte, at the turn of the 20th century. The profile view, soft focus, and luxurious fur collar create an aura of aristocratic refinement. Eugene was a leading figure in the Photo-Secession movement, which aimed to establish photography as a fine art form. Images like this reflect the influence of painting. They also reveal how photography was used at this time to construct idealized images of women. Rather than showing women as they were, photographers often sought to present a romantic vision of beauty and elegance. The institutions of art played a vital role in shaping Eugene's career, and he taught photography at both the Clarence H. White School of Photography and the Art Academy of Munich. To further explore this image, look into archives, period magazines and books. By understanding the context in which art is made, we can fully appreciate its historical significance.