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Dame in Weiss. Annan, James Craig  (Scottish, 1864-1946)

This German photography magazine began publication in 1894. Fritz Matthies-Masuren and Dr. Adolf Miethe were two of its editors. Matthies-Masuren was also an editor of German publications such as Photographische Rundschau and Photographisches Centralblatt where he supported and advanced pictorialism. An accompanying supplement, Photographische Chronik, was issued weekly. [1]

The Lady in White has been compared to a Terborch (a 17th century influential and pioneering Dutch genre painter who lived in the Dutch Golden Age) several times and indeed it is true that you can find in the portrait qualities of the Dutch master. The folds of the dress are perfectly arranged. You can hardly regret the curved line, which is unlike that of the body, created by the back of the chair covered by the model’s clothing. The value of the white material is exquisite as it is in complete harmony with the flesh of the face. The lady’s profile in full light stands out without melting into it. The accessories are sober and the whole effect is colorful, warm and alive. This portrait would be enough to confirm Mr. Craig Annan’s reputation, but he does not stop there.
[2]

References

[1] American Journal of Photography, Vol. 15.

[2] Robert Demachy, Mr. Craig Annan, Le Salon de Photographie, Avril 1897

Hannavy John. 2008. Encyclopedia of Nineteenth-Century Photography. New York NY: Routledge.