Portret van Augustus Berkeley Paget before 1891

This autotype portrait of Augustus Berkeley Paget offers a glimpse into the rigid social structures of its time. Created by Meisenbach's Autotype Company, the photograph captures a man of considerable stature, dressed in a formal suit and bow tie, befitting his role as a British diplomat. The image, while seemingly straightforward, speaks to the complex dynamics of representation and identity. Paget's distinguished appearance signifies his belonging to the upper echelons of society, a world of power and privilege. Yet, the photograph also hints at the emotional distance inherent in such formal portraiture, a sense of detachment that may reflect the burdens of his social position. Consider how the technology of autotype, a precursor to modern photography, democratized portraiture to some degree, while still maintaining a certain level of formality and control. The portrait serves not only as a record of an individual, but also as a marker of social identity and historical context.