The Madame B Album c. 1870s

"The Madame B Album" (c. 1870s) is an album of photographs by Marie-Blanche Hennelle Fournier, a prominent French photographer. The album, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, features a unique, artistic approach. Each photograph is carefully framed by hand-painted botanical details, creating a visual narrative of life and family. This elaborate composition, combining both photography and illustration, showcases Fournier's artistry and the evolving role of photography in the late 19th century. The album's delicate floral details and intimate portraits evoke a sense of domesticity and personal connection, highlighting Fournier's ability to capture the essence of everyday life in a meaningful and memorable way.