The Nadars, a photographic legend

The Nadars

fr

Self-portrait

Gustave Le Gray, around 1856-1859

Albumen print, from a collodion glass negative, 205 x 164 cm., oval
BnF, Prints and Photographs Department, STORAGE EO-13 (1)-PET FOL
© Bibliothèque nationale de France
This self-portrait in the style devised for the clientele of the Boulevard des Capucines studio portrays an artist enjoying the fruits of his success. The classic but upscale outfit is a far cry from the rather outlandish affectations of 1848, the face is serene: his wealthy clients believe in him, his seascapes are all the rage.