Lotta (Charlotte Crabtree) 1869 - 1874

This stereograph of Lotta Crabtree, the famous 19th-century actress, was produced by Jeremiah Gurney and Son in New York. During this time, when photography was becoming increasingly accessible, Gurney's studio was renowned for portraiture, capturing images of prominent figures like Crabtree. Crabtree, a figure of immense cultural relevance, gained fame as a child performer during the California Gold Rush and became known for her energetic performances that challenged the conventions of femininity. In this image, Crabtree is in costume, embodying the vivacious spirit of the era's theatrical innovation. Her attire, while theatrical, also hints at the blurring of gender roles on stage, typical for the time. This stereograph not only captures the likeness of a celebrated performer but also serves as a window into the cultural landscape of the time, reflecting evolving attitudes toward women and performance. It leaves me wondering what it must have felt like to witness her performances, to be swept up in the energy of her boundary-breaking performances.