Tempel van Hercules Invictus in Rome 1860 - 1870

This albumen print captures the Temple of Hercules Invictus in Rome. Produced by Warren W. Vernon, the photograph presents a study in contrasts between the ancient stone of the temple, the flowing water of the fountain, and the newly emerging technology of photography. The creation of albumen prints was a labor-intensive process, involving coating paper with a mixture of egg white and chemicals. It required both technical skill and an understanding of light and chemistry. The result is an image with a distinctive sepia tone and fine detail, reflecting the artist’s craftsmanship. This mode of production, typical of early photography, underscores the value placed on skilled labor and technical mastery. Consider the social context: photography in this era was becoming more accessible, but still involved a degree of expertise. Vernon’s print thus speaks to the intersection of artistry, industrialization, and the evolving landscape of visual culture.