Untitled (Black Sailor) 1875 - 1899

"Untitled (Black Sailor)" is a cabinet card photograph created by the duo Chute and Brooks between 1875 and 1899. The image depicts a young Black man in a sailor’s uniform, standing with his hand on a pedestal. The subject’s gaze is directed at the viewer with a relaxed, yet slightly formal expression. This intimate portrait, now housed in the Art Institute of Chicago, offers a glimpse into the lives of Black sailors in 19th-century America. The piece represents an example of portrait photography during this period, showcasing the artistry of the studio portrait genre.