Chinese bruidegom 1870

This photograph, "Chinese bruidegom," was created by Woodbury & Page using the Woodburytype process. This complex method, developed in the mid-19th century, relied on a mold made from a photographic negative, which was then used to press a pigmented gelatin mixture onto paper. The Woodburytype offered unparalleled tonal range and detail, but its labor-intensive nature meant it was primarily used for high-end publications and portraiture. Looking closely, we can appreciate the subtle gradations of light and shadow, which give the subject a striking presence. The choice of this meticulous process speaks volumes about the intent behind the image. Photography, in its early days, was often used to document and classify people from different cultures, sometimes reinforcing colonial power dynamics. By employing such a refined technique, Woodbury & Page elevated their subject, but also participated in the act of cultural representation. Examining the materials and methods used helps us understand the complex social context in which this image was made.