Castles, Salons, and Darkrooms: Mapping the nobility’s impact on early photographic history

Join us for the conference Castles, Salons, and Darkrooms: Mapping the nobility’s impact on early photographic history in Central Europe (1840s–1860s) at the Academic Conference Centre in Prague! 🏛️

This groundbreaking event invites scholars to delve into how the nobility shaped the early photographic landscape, moving beyond the traditional view that sees them merely as consumers. 🧐

Why Attend?

The conference will:

• Explore the role of the aristocracy as collectors, patrons, and promoters of early photographic studios.
• Discuss the influence of intermediaries who connected the aristocracy with this innovative technology.
• Analyze the contexts in which photography flourished due to the nobility's engagement, including personal representation, diplomacy, and estate management.

Call for Papers

We invite you to submit proposals for 20-minute presentations that might cover:

• The motivations behind the nobility's engagement with photography.
• The social implications of photography on aristocratic lifestyle.
• The networking and knowledge transfer that occurred across borders due to the aristocracy's interest in photography.

Submission Guidelines:

• Please submit an abstract (up to 300 words) and a brief bio to Dr. Petra Trnková by 15 July 2026. 📅

Important Dates:

• Submission Deadline: 15 July 2026
• Notification of Acceptance: 31 July 2026
• Conference Date: 20 October 2026

For any queries, contact Dr. Petra Trnková.

This event is part of the project ‘Photography Go-Betweens and the Closed Society,’ hosted by the Institute of Art History of the Czech Academy of Sciences. 🌍
Don't miss this unique opportunity to explore the intersections of art, photography, and nobility!

Location: Husova 352/4, 110 00 Prague, Czech Republic

More Info: Facebook Event