Album de la Galerie contemporaine : biographies et portraits / [Paul Hippeau (...) et al.] c. 1880

"Album de la Galerie contemporaine: biographies et portraits," was created by Paul Hippeau and others, for the Revue Illustrée in Paris. In an era of significant social and political change, this album provided a curated look into the lives and images of notable figures. As photography gained prominence, portraiture evolved, capturing not just likeness but also constructing identities. The biographies included provided context, yet also shaped perceptions, reflecting the values and biases of the Revue Illustrée. Consider how the selection of individuals, as well as the framing of their stories, would influence public opinion. Whose stories are told, and how? This album invites us to reflect on who is remembered and how cultural narratives are constructed. It asks us to think about the power of representation and its impact on society.