Prince Alfred c. 1860

Editor: So, this is "Prince Alfred," a print with watercolor and silver highlights made around 1860 by John Jabez Edwin Mayall. It’s at the Art Institute of Chicago. I’m struck by how…faded the colours are. What do you make of it? Curator: It does have a certain quietness to it, doesn't it? Almost as if we're looking back through a delicate, sun-drenched memory. These hand-colored photographs were quite the rage, adding a personal touch to the burgeoning world of portraiture. I find myself wondering about young Alfred's dreams and ambitions here... the promise, perhaps even burden, of his station. Notice the subtle nautical theme of his clothing… what might that signify, do you think? Editor: Well, a life at sea? He's even got that telescope there…symbolizing exploration, maybe? Though he looks so young for all that responsibility. Curator: Precisely! He is embarking on his life’s journey, into uncharted waters – both literally and figuratively. I find myself musing on the pressure cooker of expectation young royals face. But it's not just about burden; think also of opportunity and adventure. And notice Mayall's subtle, skillful hand-coloring... giving life to what might have been a stark, monochromatic image. Isn’t that fascinating? It elevates this simple photo to something much more poignant, almost dreamlike. Editor: It's like he's trying to capture more than just a likeness... an essence. Thanks for that perspective. I hadn’t considered all the layered meanings before. Curator: My pleasure! Every artwork whispers its secrets... sometimes you just need to listen carefully… perhaps even look with your heart a little.