The Madame B Album c. 1870s

"The Madame B Album" is a 19th-century photographic album created by Marie-Blanche Hennelle Fournier, showcasing a collection of portraits within a decorative framework of painted violets and vines. This album, which is part of The Art Institute of Chicago's collection, is a unique example of Victorian-era photographic artistry. The album is likely a personal project showcasing Fournier's talent for both photography and artistic embellishment, reflecting the popularity of album-making as a form of personal expression during that period. The inclusion of hand-painted elements adds a personal touch and transforms the album into a work of art.