Mip Paulinson 1869 - 1874

Jeremiah Gurney made this albumen print of Mip Paulinson, the sitter, sometime in the mid-19th century. Gurney was a prominent New York photographer, at a time when photography was becoming increasingly accessible to the middle class. This portrait, like many of the era, offers a glimpse into the construction of identity, particularly for women. Note Paulinson’s elaborate hairstyle and carefully chosen dress, both signifiers of her social standing and femininity. Her downcast gaze evokes a sense of demureness, aligning with the expectations of women during this period. Yet, there’s a subtle tension – a hint of melancholy – in her expression, which perhaps speaks to the constraints placed upon women. Photographs like these are not just records of appearance; they are cultural artifacts that embody the complex negotiations of identity within a specific historical context. They encourage us to reflect on the gazes, both historical and contemporary, that shape our understanding of ourselves and others.