In this episode of the podcast, Katherine Manthorne returns to discuss her book “Women in the Dark: Female Photographers 1840 to 1900.” The conversation explores the overlooked contributions of female photographers during the early days of photography, highlighting their innovative approaches and resilience in a male-dominated field. Manthorne shares insights into her research process, which began at flea markets and led to the discovery of numerous female photographers through their photo cards and studio stamps. The discussion also touches on the societal conditions that allowed women to enter the field of photography, the unique challenges they faced, and the significant yet unrecognized roles they played in the industry.
Key Points:
- Manthorne’s research began with an interest in old photographs found at flea markets, leading to the discovery of female photographers.
- Women entered photography as it was a new field without established gender hierarchies, providing them opportunities for financial independence and creative expression.
- Many women photographers were not recognized during their lifetimes, and their contributions are only now being rediscovered.
- The podcast highlights specific stories of female photographers who managed studios, worked in retouching, and even ventured into landscape photography, a challenging feat at the time.
- The societal and economic conditions of the 19th century allowed women to work in photography, often as a necessity due to widowhood or lack of other employment opportunities.
Related Episodes:
Episode 105: Women in the Dark: Female Photographers in the U.S. 1850-1900
Episode 91: Suffragists and Suffragettes: Fashion and the Vote
Links:
- Katherine Manthorne website
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About My Guest:
Katherine Manthorne writes about landscape art across the Americas and the contribution of women to 19th century art and culture. Currently an art history professor at the Graduate Center, City University of New York, she has been a visiting professor in Venice, Copenhagen, and Berlin. Her publications include Home on the Hudson Women and Men Painting Landscape, 1825-1875 and Restless Enterprise: The Art and LIfe of Eliza Pratt Greatorex
About Maureen Taylor:
Maureen Taylor, The Photo DetectiveÒhelps clients with photo-related genealogical problems. Her pioneering work in historic photo research has earned her the title “the nation’s foremost historical photo detective” by The Wall Street Journal and appearances on The View, The Today Show, Pawn Stars, and others. Learn more at Maureentaylor.com