John Ruskin c. 1880s

This photograph of John Ruskin was made by Frederick Hollyer, using a photographic process that was itself in dialogue with both art and industry. Hollyer was known for his platinum prints, a technique which gives a wide tonal range and exceptional detail. The process involves coating paper with platinum salts and exposing it to light through a negative. The print is then developed and cleared, leaving a matte, silvery image. Consider the labor involved in producing such an image, from the mining of platinum to the careful work in the darkroom. Photography in the late 19th century was a complex mix of science, craft, and artistry. The platinum print was prized for its permanence and beauty, but also for its association with the values of truth and objectivity. By attending to the material and the making of this photograph, we gain a richer understanding of its cultural significance, moving beyond the simple representation of Ruskin to consider the complex interplay of art, industry, and social values.