Twintig portretten van Mary Anderson before 1891

These twenty portraits of Mary Anderson were produced by Nadar in Paris, showcasing the actress in a variety of poses and costumes. Nadar, a key figure in early photography, captured images that reflect the socio-cultural context of the late 19th century, a time of evolving ideas about women's roles and representation. The portraits offer a glimpse into the construction of celebrity and femininity during this period. Anderson, an American actress who gained international recognition, is depicted in both theatrical attire and more informal poses, carefully curated to construct and control her public image. This collection allows us to consider how identity was crafted through photography, playing with both the authentic and the performative. Reflecting on Nadar's images, we can appreciate the interplay between the personal and the public, and the power dynamics inherent in portraiture. They remind us of how the camera can both reveal and conceal, shaping perceptions of identity in profound ways.