Death is a universal human experience, but the way we view and cope with it has changed throughout history.
In the Victorian era (1837-1901), photography was a new technology, and it offered a unique way to memorialize the deceased: death photography. Strap in while we take a look at some of the most macabre and unusual photography of the 19th centure.
Warning: This post explores this fascinating, and sometimes unsettling, practice.
Why Death Photography?
Unlike today, death was a common occurrence in the Victorian era. People died at home, and death was a recognized part of life. Photography provided a way to:
- Preserve Memories: Since photography was new, having a permanent image of a loved one, even after death, was a cherished way to keep them close.
- Show Respect: Death photographs were often the only record of a person’s life and were treated seriously.
The Memento Mori Aspect
While some photos depicted the deceased in a natural sleeping pose, others were more elaborate. Family members might be included, and some photographers even went so far as to prop up the deceased or paint their cheeks to create a lifelike appearance. This practice, while strange to us today, was a way for people to come to terms with death and say goodbye.
Technical Challenges
Early photography required long exposure times, necessitating the deceased to be propped for several minutes. This led to the use of stands and braces, and some photographers even added their own touches, like opening closed eyelids.
A Global Phenomenon
Death photography wasn’t unique to Victorians. It was practiced around the world in the 19th century, but Victorian-era photographs are the most well-known.
The Decline and Resurgence
As photography became more accessible and death became more medicalized, death photography waned in popularity by the 20th century. However, there’s been a renewed interest in recent years, with some artists creating modern interpretations.
Understanding the Context
While Victorian death photography might seem strange today, it’s important to remember the context. It was a way for people to manage death in a time when it was more present in daily life.
Examples and Further Exploration
This glimpse into the past, though dark, offers a fascinating look at how people in a different era dealt with death.
