Werf in Antibes 1899

This albumen print, “Werf in Antibes”, was made by Delizy, using photographic processes to capture a shipyard scene. It's not a grand vista or a posed portrait, but a glimpse into the everyday, emphasizing the setting itself. Photography in this era was a labor-intensive process, demanding careful preparation of materials and meticulous execution in the darkroom. This specific print, with its sepia tones and soft focus, highlights the material qualities of the photographic process itself. The inherent limitations and characteristics of the materials are showcased in the artwork. The image offers insight into labor and class of the people in Antibes. It prompts us to consider the work that went into both the scene depicted, and the making of the photograph itself. By appreciating the craft involved, we deepen our understanding of the image, and question the traditional hierarchy between art and craft.