Rebecca Salsbury Strand c. 1924

Alfred Stieglitz captured this portrait of Rebecca Salsbury Strand using gelatin silver print, a process that was becoming increasingly popular at the time. This method relies on the light sensitivity of silver halides in gelatin, an industrial material made from animal collagen. The inherent qualities of the gelatin silver process lend themselves to a remarkable tonal range. The image’s appearance is influenced by the way light interacts with the silver particles within the gelatin layer, resulting in a rich, detailed photograph. Stieglitz coaxed incredible nuance from this process, with velvety blacks and luminous highlights. Photography in the early 20th century was deeply tied to wider social issues of labor and politics. While it democratized image-making to some extent, the professionalization of photography also created new hierarchies and divisions within the art world. Stieglitz's decision to embrace photography as a fine art challenged traditional notions of artistic skill and creativity, pushing the boundaries of what was considered "high art." Understanding the materials, techniques, and the context of its creation allows us to fully appreciate this artwork, challenging the distinctions between fine art and craft.