[Empress Eugénie's Poodle] 1850s

André-Adolphe-Eugène Disdéri made this albumen silver print, titled *Empress Eugénie's Poodle.* Photography in the 19th century involved a complex alchemy. Light-sensitive chemicals were applied to glass or metal plates, then exposed to light in a camera. The resulting image was then developed and fixed, often using a variety of chemical baths. It was a labor-intensive process, requiring meticulous attention to detail and a high level of technical skill. The sepia tones and soft focus give this image a dreamy quality, yet the dog’s very presence speaks volumes about the social status of its owner. Dog breeding was already well underway as a commercial enterprise by the time Disdéri made this photograph, and the pampering of pets among the upper classes reflected a specific set of social conditions. Considering the material and making of this photograph allows us to recognize the relationship between artistry, technology, and social class. It challenges any strict division between fine art and craft.