Untitled (Portrait of a Standing Man Wearing a Fireman's Uniform) 1865

This 1865 tintype, titled "Untitled (Portrait of a Standing Man Wearing a Fireman's Uniform)", captures a fireman in full uniform, holding a bouquet of roses. The anonymous artist used the popular, and at the time, cutting-edge, tintype photography process to create the portrait. The simple composition with the fireman standing in front of a chair and draped curtain is reminiscent of studio portraiture prevalent in the mid 19th century. The inclusion of the roses, a symbol of love and gratitude, suggests the portrait was likely commissioned as a commemorative piece for a beloved community hero. This artwork can be viewed at The Art Institute of Chicago.