Publisher's Synopsis
Journey back to the dawn of photography in the nineteenth century and uncover the fascinating interplay between image and identity. "Aura and Artifact: The Material Culture of Portrait Photography and Self-Representation in the Nineteenth Century delves into the rich history of photographic portraiture, exploring how this groundbreaking technology revolutionized the way we see ourselves and the world around us.
Discover the carefully orchestrated world of the nineteenth-century photographic studio, where props, poses, and backdrops played a vital role in constructing identity. Uncover the secrets behind the carte de visite phenomenon, a photographic craze that swept across the globe, transforming social interaction and fueling a culture of collecting and exchange.
Explore the meticulous curation of self through fashion and accessories, as individuals crafted their photographic personas with carefully chosen attire and jewelry. The book delves into the private sphere, revealing how photographs were displayed in homes, albums, and on parlor walls, shaping family narratives and rituals of memory and mourning.
From the rise of studio photography to the intimate practices of domestic display, this book examines the materiality of the photographic object, its aura, and its enduring power. Witness the poignant practice of postmortem photography, a testament to the enduring human need to preserve memories and bridge the gap between life and death. This era saw the photograph emerge as a powerful memento mori, capturing the fleeting nature of existence and offering solace in the face of loss.
Aura and Artifact" traces the evolution of self-representation through photography, drawing a direct line from the nineteenth-century portrait to the modern selfie. Explore how the digital echoes of these early photographic practices resonate in our contemporary image-obsessed culture. This book reveals the fascinating story of how photography became a powerful tool for self-fashioning, allowing individuals to shape their public image and leave a lasting impression on the world.
Uncover the hidden stories behind the portraits of the past and gain a deeper understanding of the power of images in shaping our lives. This book offers a captivating exploration of photography's cultural impact, revealing how it has transformed our relationship with identity, memory, and the very essence of being human
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Delve into the world of nineteenth-century photography and unlock the secrets behind the lens. Discover the captivating origins of self-representation in the age of the photograph and its profound impact on the world we live in today.
Capture your piece of photographic history!
