[Man] 1843 - 1847

This portrait was made between 1843 and 1848 by Hill and Adamson, using a process called calotype. This early photographic technique involved coating paper with silver iodide, making it light-sensitive. The resulting print has a soft, almost painterly quality, far removed from the sharp precision we expect from photography today. Notice how the texture of the paper itself becomes part of the image, adding depth and a sense of atmosphere. The calotype was revolutionary, but also labor-intensive. Each print was unique, requiring careful handling and expertise. Hill and Adamson were pioneers, pushing the boundaries of this new technology to capture not just likenesses, but also the character and social standing of their subjects. Considering the materials and processes involved, we can appreciate how much skill and effort went into creating this image, and understand photography's early significance as both a scientific innovation and a form of artistic expression.