Fille de Shanghai 1870s

Editor: This is "Fille de Shanghai" taken in the 1870s by Raimund von Stillfried. It's a photograph, currently at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The pale, almost sepia tones give it such a subdued feel. What do you see when you look at this portrait? Curator: Initially, the subtle tonal gradation establishes a very constrained colour palette, and in turn draws one's focus towards the subject's calculated asymmetry of the hair, offset by her direct gaze. Note how the barest details provide depth - the jewel earring, the slight texture in the damask-like material of the dress. Editor: Yes, I hadn't considered the composition so deliberately arranged. Does this portrait adhere to photographic norms of the period? Curator: Well, one must note Stillfried's involvement in orientalist photography. I'd argue this is no objective portrayal of a young woman. Note the studio setting devoid of specific location; consider that this 'Shanghai Girl' performs a pre-constructed idea about exoticism to the Western gaze. It isn’t so much about verisimilitude as it is about an evocative aesthetic. Editor: That's a strong point. I was drawn in by what I thought was realism, but seeing it as a curated performance really changes my perspective. Curator: Precisely. And what have you noted about the treatment of light and shadow, and how this affects the representation? Editor: The lighting seems so flat and controlled. It eliminates harsh shadows. By doing that, any sense of dynamic drama is neutralised. All the emphasis, once again, turns to the figure. I initially responded to it viscerally but now can analyze its structural construction. Thank you for shedding new light on this photograph. Curator: An insightful reading on your part.