Portret van Léon Le Métayer-Masselin, before 1861

This anonymous portrait of Léon Le Métayer-Masselin, created before 1861, showcases a formal, mid-19th-century photographic style. The subject is presented in a simple, oval-shaped frame against a plain backdrop, emphasizing his features and attire. The crisp details of his clothing and the subtle play of light and shadow on his face demonstrate the technical proficiency of the unknown photographer. This photograph provides a glimpse into the visual culture of the time, highlighting the growing popularity of portraiture in the early days of photography.