Mrs. Scott Siddons 1869 - 1874

This is a stereograph of Mrs. Scott Siddons made by Jeremiah Gurney and Son in New York, though the exact date of its creation remains unknown. Stereographs like this one were a popular form of entertainment in the 19th century, offering a three-dimensional viewing experience. Gurney was a prominent photographer in New York, and his studio was known for producing high-quality portraits of notable figures and everyday citizens. The availability of such portraits reflects the democratization of art facilitated by photography. Previously, only the wealthy could afford painted portraits, but photography made portraiture accessible to a broader segment of society. It also created a market for professional photography studios. Further research into the Gurney studio’s records, as well as the social circles of Mrs. Scott Siddons, could reveal more about the context in which this image was created. The image stands as a testament to the changing landscape of art and representation in the 19th century.