Dimensions: height 216 mm, width 140 mm, thickness 15 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
This is Adams & Co's photographic annual for 1891, a printed book, likely made with mass production techniques common in the late 19th century. Consider the materials involved: paper, ink, and binding. These were widely available, but their processing into a book represents a significant industrial undertaking. The pages themselves are relatively thin, suggesting an effort to minimize material costs. The typography and layout, though clean, are typical of the era, reflecting the standardization of print production. Even the act of claiming copyright speaks volumes, illustrating the growing importance of intellectual property in a rapidly industrializing world. Notice the emphasis on mail orders, which highlights the book's role in facilitating a burgeoning consumer culture. The annual’s existence is inextricably linked to mass production, distribution, and consumption, reflecting the increasing integration of photography into everyday life.
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