Return of Commander Selfridge and his Reconnaissance Party from an Expedition in the Interior of Darien 1870

Timothy O'Sullivan captured this albumen silver print, titled "Return of Commander Selfridge...", somewhere in the late 19th century. The albumen process, popular at the time, involved coating paper with egg white to create a smooth surface for the light-sensitive silver compounds. This process is key to understanding the image's material presence. Note the sharp details and tonal range achieved through this meticulous method. The rich sepia tones are a direct result of the chemical reactions involved, giving the print its unique warmth and depth. The photograph documents a U.S. expedition exploring the Isthmus of Darien in Panama, searching for a potential canal route. In this image, labor and class dynamics become visible through the lens of the camera. The contrast in attire between Commander Selfridge and his party and the indigenous people who served as guides is quite evident. This highlights the power structures inherent in exploration and colonization. Considering the image, the material processes, and its social context allows us to challenge traditional boundaries between art, documentation, and the complex issues of labor, politics, and consumption.