Portrait of Viola Mead 1860 - 1899

This is C. W. Mitchell’s photographic portrait of Viola Mead. Though the date is unknown, we can assume it was created during the late 19th century. The portrait, with its oval vignette and decorative card, reflects the conventions of the time, but it also provides a glimpse into the identity of a woman whose story might otherwise be lost to history. Consider Viola's gaze; it is direct, thoughtful. Her dress, though modest, is neatly adorned with lace. These details offer a sense of her place in society, and perhaps her aspirations. How does Viola see herself, and how does she wish to be seen? As an object, the photograph itself speaks to broader social and economic shifts. Photography was becoming more accessible, offering a new means for individuals to record and assert their presence in a rapidly changing world. This image invites us to reflect on the lives of everyday people and the ways in which they sought to define themselves.