The Morning Call 1860 - 1901

This stereograph, titled "The Morning Call," was produced by Anthony and Company sometime between 1848 and 1901. The image depicts a woman seated at a table, seemingly receiving a visit from two young girls. Stereographs like this were a popular form of entertainment in the late 19th century. Sold as a "Young Idea Series," it's clear Anthony and Company were trying to sell people on the idea of sentimental portraits of domestic life. The carefully arranged scene and the fashionable attire of the subjects speak to the social aspirations of the middle class at this time. These images offered a glimpse into an idealized version of domesticity, one that emphasized leisure, refinement, and social interaction. To fully understand the cultural significance of this image, one could delve into the history of photography, the rise of consumer culture, and the social norms of the Victorian era. By examining these factors, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex interplay between art, society, and the institutions that shape them.