The Gaze 1856 - 1857

"The Gaze" is a 19th-century photograph by Pierre-Louis Pierson, showcasing a woman in a formal pose, likely a portrait of a wealthy individual. Taken in 1856-1857, the photograph captures the subject's gaze directly toward the viewer, creating an intimate connection, characteristic of early portraiture. The woman's elegant dress and jewelry suggest her social standing, while the setting, possibly a parlor or drawing room, highlights the domestic sphere. Pierson's use of light and shadow, a hallmark of his work, adds depth and realism to the image. This early photographic print, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, offers a glimpse into 19th-century fashion and portrait photography.