[Still-Life with Cockatoo, Ornamental Ball, Lace, Peacock Feathers] 1850s

"Still-Life with Cockatoo, Ornamental Ball, Lace, Peacock Feathers" is a stereoscopic photograph created by T. R. Williams in the 1850s, currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. This Victorian era still life showcases a white cockatoo perched on a branch, holding a ball in its claws, surrounded by intricate lace and peacock feathers. This type of photograph, called a stereograph, creates a three-dimensional effect when viewed through a stereoscope, a device that allows each eye to see a slightly different image, creating depth perception. This work reflects the Victorian fascination with exotic flora and fauna, as well as the growing popularity of stereoscopic photography during the 19th century.