Untitled (bust length portrait of woman) 1877 - 1879

Editor: This is an undated portrait of a woman by Notman & Campbell, printed on a mount about 16 by 11 centimeters. The photographic process is so interesting to me. What stands out to you about how this image was made? Curator: I'm drawn to the relationship between labor and consumption. The subject's dress, the photographic chemicals, the printing process, the studio itself – all represent specific economic activities and material conditions. How does the image itself participate in this system? Editor: That's a great question. It makes me think about the cost of having a portrait taken in this era, and who had access to that luxury. Curator: Exactly! And consider the material support needed for photography at the time. Reflecting on these economic structures informs our understanding. Editor: I hadn't considered that; it really highlights the cultural implications of the image. Curator: Indeed. It's about the consumption and creation of meaning through material processes.