Tonga / Suva, Fiji
1880s
Albumen photograph
5 1/4 x 4 in.
13.3 x 10.2 cm
Provenance: Private collection, Santa Barbara, California
This albumen photograph by W. Dufty shows a Tongan woman standing in a studio setting, dressed in a traditional fiber skirt and holding a woven fan. Dufty operated in Suva in the late 19th century, and his portraits form part of the early photographic record of Pacific Island subjects. The painted backdrop and formal standing pose reflect colonial studio portrait conventions used across the Pacific during this period.
The photograph records costume, jewelry, and personal presentation with clear detail, including the beaded choker and woven fan. These elements relate to Tongan adornment, rank, and ceremonial presentation in the 19th century. The warm tonal range of the albumen process brings out the texture of the garments and the details of the sitter’s dress.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Tonga / Suva, Fiji
1880s
Albumen photograph
5 1/4 x 4 in.
13.3 x 10.2 cm
Provenance: Private collection, Santa Barbara, California
This albumen photograph by W. Dufty shows a Tongan woman standing in a studio setting, dressed in a traditional fiber skirt and holding a woven fan. Dufty operated in Suva in the late 19th century, and his portraits form part of the early photographic record of Pacific Island subjects. The painted backdrop and formal standing pose reflect colonial studio portrait conventions used across the Pacific during this period.
The photograph records costume, jewelry, and personal presentation with clear detail, including the beaded choker and woven fan. These elements relate to Tongan adornment, rank, and ceremonial presentation in the 19th century. The warm tonal range of the albumen process brings out the texture of the garments and the details of the sitter’s dress.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
