Los retratistas pioneros de la Corte : 1859-1866

During the second half of the 19th century, more than fifty photography studios opened in Madrid, catering to the working classes with affordable portrait services. The *carte de visite* popularized a small format that offered a glimpse into the Spanish society of the era—revealing the clothing, hairstyles, jewelry, and adornments people wore to festive occasions. This trend had such an impact that no social stratum wanted to be left out; photography studios welcomed intellectuals, musicians, and aristocrats alike, including Amadeo of Savoy and Queen Isabella II. General Prim, performers from the Price Circus, leading bullfighters, and members of the first Japanese embassy all posed before those early cameras.