Portret van Josephine Durwend als Finette before 1863

Curator: This is a photograph of Josephine Durwend, captured by Nadar sometime before 1863. It’s entitled, "Portret van Josephine Durwend als Finette." What strikes you about it? Editor: I am immediately drawn to its dreamlike quality. The sepia tones create this gorgeous, soft filter. It’s a portal back in time. The paper it’s printed on even feels like something out of a vintage fairytale, almost begging to be touched despite knowing that would be a mistake. Curator: The photograph is actually affixed within the pages of a sketchbook. You see how the picture sits opposite blank pages, as if waiting for annotations or additions. It gives a glimpse into how photographs were perceived then—not just as stand-alone artworks but integrated into everyday life and artistic practices. Editor: Exactly. It blurs the lines. Was it a portrait, a prop, a source of inspiration? Her pose almost seems like a performance still, theatrical. That high collared neckline paired with the confident stance, feels right at home. It makes you wonder what kind of person she was beyond the image, you know? Curator: Well, understanding the cultural context of Nadar’s portrait studio and the societal role of actresses during the mid-19th century can definitely help us decode some of this. Nadar, aside from his artistic endeavors, was a key player in shaping the public perception of celebrity. How actresses such as Durwend negotiated and projected identity were significant. The photographs existed not in isolation but participated in an industry of imagery. Editor: Sure, the photograph clearly lived a life, a layered existence even. Now I see that she doesn't just own the look, she uses it! This is powerful for a woman from this period. There is some subversive expression, something raw but subtle in those sepia hues... Curator: Right. It underscores how intertwined visual art became with the cultivation and management of public figures, with enduring cultural consequence. Editor: It is still inspiring that Josephine holds that kind of sway after all this time. Well I certainly learned some insight during that. Thanks! Curator: Agreed, what a fantastic insight! Thank you as well!