William Henry "Harry" Wright, Manager, Philadelphia, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes 1887 - 1890

Editor: Here we have a collotype print, likely from between 1887 and 1890, called "William Henry 'Harry' Wright, Manager, Philadelphia, from the Old Judge series (N172) for Old Judge Cigarettes." It's part of the Met's collection. I find the monochromatic palette very interesting for what is essentially an advertisement. What stands out to you formally? Curator: Note how the composition isolates the subject, Harry Wright, placing him against a fairly nondescript backdrop that nevertheless manages subtle tonal variations. This strategy accentuates his form and the intricate textures rendered by the collotype process, such as the fabric of his suit, the detailed tie, and of course, his very commanding beard. Editor: Yes, the textures are striking for a print! Does the formal composition contribute to a reading of his character, or status? Curator: Undoubtedly. The framing centers Wright and reinforces an impression of authority. Note the cropped composition and how it creates an immediate and assertive presence of the figure, minimizing the surrounding context to concentrate our visual attention on Wright's persona. Editor: So it’s almost as if the cropping forces you into his personal space? Interesting, like you're encountering him face to face. It seems more modern that way. Curator: Precisely. Consider, too, the limited tonal range. The blacks and whites produce contrast which results in bold features, and further the visual rhetoric of power. By attending to these elements, one may develop a keener sense of this print’s compositional force. Editor: I see! By reducing everything down to shapes and light, it makes the image feel imposing, even now. Thanks for that close look! Curator: My pleasure. Thinking critically about these structural elements really deepens our engagement.