Clara Louise Kellogg (1842-1916) 1869 - 1874

This is a stereograph of Clara Louise Kellogg, the famous opera singer, made by Jeremiah Gurney in New York. It was likely produced in the 1860s or 70s when Kellogg was at the height of her fame. Stereographs like this one were a popular form of entertainment in the mid-19th century, offering a 3D image when viewed through a special device. Gurney's studio was known for its celebrity portraits, catering to a growing market for images of famous performers. This photograph speaks to the rise of celebrity culture and the commercialization of the arts during this period. Kellogg's success as an American opera singer challenged European dominance in the field, reflecting a broader cultural nationalism. Further research into Gurney's studio and Kellogg's career, using period newspapers and theatrical ephemera, can shed light on the social and cultural dynamics at play in this seemingly simple portrait.