Post-mortem photography

Bernhard Cathrinus Pauss, post portem-portrett, november 1907

Post mortem portrait of Kaiser Frederick III

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Atelier Nadar - Pedro II. (1825-1891), König von Brasilien, auf seinem Totenbett in Paris (Zeno Fotografie)

Bishop-Syria

Post-mortem photograph of young child with flowers

Post-mortem photography is a practice that involves photographing the deceased. Originating in the early 19th century, it became a common practice in many parts of the world, especially in Europe and America, as a way to memorialize the dead. This article explores the history, cultural significance, and techniques of post-mortem photography.

History

The advent of photography in the early 19th century brought about significant changes in the way people commemorated their deceased loved ones. Before the widespread availability of photography, painted portraits were the primary means of memorializing the deceased, a luxury that was only affordable to the wealthy. The invention of the daguerreotype in 1839, followed by less expensive photographic processes, made portrait photography accessible to the middle class. As a result, post-mortem photography emerged as a popular practice for grieving families.

Cultural Significance

Post-mortem photography served multiple purposes. It was not only a way to remember the deceased but also acted as a tangible link between the living and the dead. In the Victorian era, death was a prevalent part of everyday life due to high mortality rates from diseases and lack of medical knowledge. Post-mortem photographs often depicted the deceased in a lifelike state, sometimes positioned as if they were sleeping or surrounded by family members. These photographs were cherished as keepsakes and were an integral part of the mourning process.

Techniques

Early post-mortem photographs were typically taken in the family's home, with the deceased dressed in their best attire. Photographers employed various techniques to make the deceased appear as if they were still alive. This included propping up the body, painting eyes onto the photographic print, or posing the deceased with living family members. As photography evolved, so did the techniques for post-mortem photography, with some photographers specializing in this area.

Decline

The practice of post-mortem photography began to decline in the early 20th century with advances in medicine, which reduced mortality rates, and changes in cultural attitudes towards death. The development of snapshot photography also played a role, as families began to have more photographs taken throughout a person's life, reducing the need for a post-mortem photograph to serve as the sole memory of the deceased.

Contemporary Practice

While not as common today, post-mortem photography still exists in various forms around the world, reflecting continuing traditions and the human desire to remember and honor the dead. In some cultures, it remains an important part of the mourning process, adapting to modern photography techniques while still serving its original purpose.

See Also

• Memento mori
• Victorian era
• History of photography
• Funerary art