Portret van François Delsarte 1861 - 1867

This photographic portrait of François Delsarte was made by Carjat et Cie. using the albumen print process. A paper negative would have been placed in contact with a sheet of paper coated in albumen – that’s egg white – and silver salts, then exposed to light. This procedure was repeated, creating a positive image. The resulting print has a smooth surface and a wide tonal range, evident in the subtle gradations of light and shadow across Delsarte's face and clothing. The albumen process was popular in the mid-19th century because it was relatively inexpensive and produced sharp, detailed images. It was also a commercial medium; studios like Carjat et Cie. mass-produced portraits for a growing middle class, and the professionalization of photography, where an art studio could take on a factory dimension. Considering this history of materials, making, and context is crucial to fully understanding the artwork, and challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.