Portret van Conchita Gélabert before 1879

This print, made by Nadar, captures the actress Conchita Gélabert, using photographic processes combined with lithography. This was a fascinating moment in the history of image making, when photography was becoming more accessible, but still relied on hand-printing. In this context, the choice of materials speaks volumes. Nadar was a pioneer in photography, using the latest techniques to capture images with incredible detail. Yet, the print also includes lithographic elements, such as the decorative frame, which were created by skilled artisans using traditional methods of stone carving and printing. The lithographic elements required a great deal of skilled labor, contrasting with the supposed ease of the photographic process. The combination reflects the blurring lines between artistic skill, industrial production, and the growing culture of celebrity in the late 19th century. Recognizing how this print was made helps us to understand its cultural significance.