From the mid-19th century until the 1920s, portraits were popular, with their cardboard backing corresponding to the format of a business card at the time.
This format (about 6.5 x 10.5 cm / 2,5 x 4,1 inch ) gave them the name "Carte de Visite" photographs.
The portrait photographs were taken by renowned photographer's studios in major cities such as Paris, London and Berlin.
Some of the backs bear elaborately designed stamps that served as advertising for the photographers.
The poses of the people portrayed, in front of the backdrops in the photographer's studio, were carefully thought out and arranged.
Thus, the portraits seemed more vivid and even more "according to nature".
The handy cards could be produced in large quantities and quickly became popular collectibles.
Often, well-known personalities such as actors or musicians are depicted.
It is not uncommon to find their signatures on the cards as well.
Noblemen, heads of state and politicians are also frequently among the people portrayed.
Die Carte de Visite Fotografien wurden zum Teil in reich verzierten Alben aufbewahrt. Es wurden aber auch Bilderrahmen zum Aufstellen oder Aufhängen der Fotografien angeboten.
Beyond their pure use as "business cards with portraits," many carte de visite photographs also show folk motifs or representations of professional groups.
Traditional costume clothing was also a popular motif.
Bildauswahl, bpk-Bildarchiv: Antonia Teweleit
Text, bpk-Bildarchiv: Antonia Teweleit
