O contemporaneo before 1879

Curator: So, this is "O Contemporaneo," which features a portrait of Josefina Amann, probably before 1879, and done through photography and printmaking. It's so much more than just a picture in a newspaper. Editor: Absolutely. There is a very dreamy quality to the print itself, almost as if you were to pick it up it would be as soft as smoke. What catches your eye when you look at it? Curator: Well, the layered meaning fascinates me! This is a reproduction of a photo within the pages of a journal called “The Contemporary.” Back then, photography was still magical. Each reproduction was almost an echo, a faint dream of the original. I am also quite captivated by her. I think back to my favorite poem by Pessoa "Opiário". Does she remind you of anyone? Editor: A little bit! There's a real quiet strength in the way she gazes just beyond us. Almost confrontational and questioning. She looks to be in the beginnings of great discovery of herself as well. Do you think there's any particular reason they put her in the magazine at this moment? Curator: This image must have really captivated someone to memorialize this young lady. To your previous question about what caught my attention - the image placement of Josefina placed delicately with adornments from what looks to be writing. How incredible to preserve. Now that we spent all this time pondering what our perception means.. I wonder about others who knew Josefina - or even just passed her by in a shop or at a party. Editor: Yes, exactly, who else took notice, and what did they notice! A thought to follow later, but yes what a beautifully preserved moment! Curator: I think you just made the artwork speak beyond its borders - Bravo!