Renan c. 1976

"Renan," a 19th century photograph taken by Antoine Samuel Adam-Salomon, captures the scholar Ernest Renan, a renowned French philosopher and historian, in a formal pose. Standing by a column, Renan appears contemplative, holding a rolled-up document in his left hand, emphasizing his intellectual pursuits. The image, printed on paper and mounted on a larger sheet, reflects the traditional portraiture style of the era, showcasing a masterful use of light and shadow to highlight the sitter's features. This photograph, now a part of The Art Institute of Chicago's collection, offers a glimpse into the life of a prominent figure of 19th century intellectualism.