Capri_ Women doing housework c. 1890 - 1900

These three photographs titled 'Capri_Women doing housework' are by James Winthrop Holcombe. They present a glimpse into the lives of women in Capri through a carefully constructed ethnographic lens. Holcombe captures his subjects amidst the backdrop of domesticity, yet these images transcend mere documentation. The women are pictured in staged scenarios that evoke classical poses, an artistic choice that both idealizes and perhaps exoticizes their roles. We see the convergence of art, culture, and identity. Each portrait, while seemingly straightforward, hints at the complex interplay between the photographer's vision and the reality of his subjects. The choice to depict these women in a manner that blends local activity with universal ideals invites reflection on how identities are perceived and represented, both within and beyond their own cultural contexts. This collection serves as a potent reminder of the nuanced dialogue between observer and observed, revealing the layered narratives embedded in visual representation.