Untitled 1855 - 1875

This photographic portrait was made in the mid-19th century, by an anonymous maker, using the daguerreotype process. The image is formed on a silver-plated copper sheet, treated with chemicals and exposed to light in a camera. The plate is then developed with mercury vapor, fixed, and sealed behind glass in a presentation case. The final result is a unique image with a mirror-like surface, capturing incredible detail. This daguerreotype process was revolutionary, marking a shift from laborious hand-drawn portraiture to a new form of mechanical reproduction, bringing portraiture to a wider audience. Each daguerreotype is a one-off creation, demanding great skill and care. The labor involved in the photographic process may be hidden from view, yet it is the foundation of the image. By recognizing this, we can appreciate the labor and technological innovation, which made this image possible.