La nièce de Mr. Tahon propriétaire de la maison n° 7 1854 - 1856

Louis-Pierre-Théophile Dubois de Nehaut created this albumen silver print, titled "La nièce de Mr. Tahon propriétaire de la maison n° 7". This portrait captures a moment of the mid-19th century, a period marked by social stratification. As photography emerged, it opened new avenues for representation, yet traditional hierarchies often persisted. Here, the subject's attire and pose reflect bourgeois conventions, indicative of her social standing as the niece of a property owner. The gaze of the sitter, however, complicates any singular reading, inviting us to consider her individual identity within the confines of societal expectations. Notice the detailed rendering of fabric and texture. It serves not only to document appearance but also to convey status and taste. The very act of commissioning a portrait signals a certain level of privilege, raising questions about access, visibility, and power dynamics inherent in the photographic process itself. The emotional resonance of this work lies in its quiet contemplation of identity and representation, offering a glimpse into the lives and stories of individuals navigating a rapidly changing world.