Fotoreproductie van een portret van Robert van Bourbon-Orléans, hertog van Chartres c. 1851 - 1900

Curator: Here, we have a photograph, probably dating from somewhere between 1851 and 1900. It's a portrait of Robert van Bourbon-Orléans, the Duke of Chartres, presented as an albumen print. Editor: Wow, it's like stepping into a sepia dream. It has this intimate, almost ghostly vibe, right? The size and tones make it feel very precious, like a secret little window into the past. Curator: Absolutely, and this particular photographic technique speaks to the social and political context of the time. The albumen print, using egg whites to bind the photographic chemicals, became quite popular, especially for portraiture, due to its sharp detail. Robert was a member of French royalty, which adds a layer of power and privilege to how and why his likeness was captured and disseminated. Editor: Egg whites, fancy! But you’re right, the detail is fantastic. You can see the weight of the fabric in his coat and the very serious look in his eyes. Was it a 'power move' to sit for one of these portraits? Curator: I think it definitely performed a role in crafting and cementing public perception. Photography was still quite new and exclusive; having your image captured and reproduced in this way amplified one’s status and presence. Editor: So, it's PR before PR existed? It's interesting how formal and composed he looks, yet knowing this might have been some type of curated image, I wonder about his unguarded self. What were his real passions? I am imagining an intriguing narrative about Robert… a reluctant ruler possibly! Curator: Well, it’s through these photographs that we can begin to unravel how historical figures constructed and wanted to be perceived through image. Editor: Right. It makes you think about the performance of identity and representation then versus now. The medium may have shifted drastically but the basic impulse feels surprisingly similar! It really speaks to the intersection of personal representation and political persona. This portrait really gave me pause. Curator: I think it is a testament to the enduring appeal of these older photographic methods, and portraiture in general; there's an aura surrounding those who gaze back at us from decades ago.