Sèriè à la Ristori 1860s

This photograph, “Sèriè à la Ristori,” was created by French photographer Pierre-Louis Pierson in the 1860s. It depicts a woman dressed in a long gown and a veil, standing in a simple, well-lit studio space. The subject’s pose and facial expression give the viewer a sense of her theatrical performance and the dramatic presence for which she is known. The photograph is a striking example of portraiture in the 19th century and showcases Pierson’s skill in capturing the essence of his subject. Pierson's career spanned several decades, and his work is held in many important museum collections.