[Man with Side Whiskers] 1870s - 1880s

Frederick Gutekunst, a prominent Philadelphia photographer, made this albumen print portrait, titled "Man with Side Whiskers," at some point during his career. Gutekunst’s studio operated during a transformative period for photography in the United States, roughly 1850 to 1900. During this time, photography became increasingly accessible and affordable. The proliferation of portrait studios reflected a growing democratization of image-making, allowing a broader segment of the population to participate in visual representation. Gutekunst was known for his technical skill and artistic sensibility, making him a sought-after portraitist among the city's elite. His work offers insights into the visual culture and social values of the time. Historical sources like studio records, period directories, and local histories are invaluable in understanding the institutional role that photography studios played. This helps us contextualize the image and reveal the complex interactions between artistic production and social structures.