Jean-Gabriel Eynard's nephew and heir Charles Eynard married the daguerreotypist's adopted daughter, Sophie. They appear in this portrait with their children Gabriel, Hilda, and Féodor. Charles wrote biographies and, like other members of the family, was a talented amateur artist. Eynard's attempt to avoid the usual formality of group portraits of this period is reflected in his subjects' casual attitudes. Strangely enough, each figure is posed so that only a single hand is visible.
Interested in Natural history?
Get updates with your personalized Culture Weekly
You are all set!
Your first Culture Weekly will arrive this week.