In the age of instant digital photography, it’s hard to imagine a time when capturing a single image required meticulous preparation and patience. Yet, in 1839, a Philadelphia resident named Robert Cornelius did just that, creating what is widely regarded as the first selfie in history.
This groundbreaking portrait not only marked a significant milestone in the evolution of photography but also reflected the human desire to capture and preserve one’s own image. Today, selfies are an integral part of our digital culture, but Cornelius’s pioneering effort was a labor of love and experimentation.
The Art and Science of Early Photography
The process of creating a daguerreotype, the photographic method used by Cornelius, was far from simple. It involved working with hazardous chemicals like bromine and mercury as well as preparing specific metal plates. Cornelius, an inventor and silver plater, was well-equipped to handle these challenges.
His interest in photography was sparked by his collaboration with Joseph Saxton a watchmaker and inventor who is believed to have taken the oldest surviving photo in the United States. Saxton’s image depicted Philadelphia Central High School and the Pennsylvania State Arsenal. Inspired by this work, Cornelius decided to create his own daguerreotype, fashioning a camera from a tin box and opera glasses.
A Moment Frozen in Time
On that historic day in 1839, Cornelius set up his makeshift camera outside his parents’ shop. He then stood in complete stillness for several minutes, allowing the camera to capture his image. The exact duration of his pose remains uncertain, as Cornelius did not record this detail. However, the resulting portrait is a testament to his patience and dedication.
“From that, he took the first selfie, and somehow his beautifully tousled hair did not shift too much,” said Joanna Dunphy the artistic director of Historic Philadelphia Incorporated. The portrait, now preserved in the collection of the U.S. Library of Congress is not only the oldest surviving portrait in America but also a symbol of the human desire to capture one’s own likeness.
The Evolution of the Selfie
Cornelius’s selfie was more than just a scientific experiment; it was a reflection of the human tendency to turn the lens back on oneself. This practice has evolved significantly over the years, from cave paintings and self-portraits by artists like Vincent van Gogh to the instant digital selfies of today.
“Just like humans have done throughout time, whether it’s a cave painting or Van Gogh painting himself, we turn it back on ourselves,” Dunphy explained. For Cornelius, the selfie was likely an experiment, but its cultural significance has grown exponentially.
Today, selfies are a ubiquitous part of our digital culture. They allow us to preserve memories, share experiences, and connect with others. The convenience of modern smartphones has made it possible to capture countless selfies in a matter of seconds, a stark contrast to the several minutes Cornelius had to stand still for his historic portrait.
Celebrating a Historical Milestone
To honor Cornelius’s pioneering effort, the historic district of Philadelphia is hosting a “Firstival” at Franklin Square this Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. This event is part of the ongoing “52 Weeks of Firsts” celebration, which highlights various historical firsts associated with the city.
Artist Alana Bograd has created a sculpture to commemorate the milestone, featuring a colorful recreation of Cornelius’s photo alongside a daguerreotype and more modern phone selfies. Bograd was inspired by Cornelius’s dedication to photography, especially knowing how long he had to stand still for his selfie.
“To me that was pretty funny,” Bograd said. “Selfies are a big part of our culture. I have a teenager. I have an eight-year-old. They’ve been making selfies on my phone for a very long time now, and I don’t think it’s going anywhere.”
The Enduring Legacy of the Selfie
The selfie has become a powerful tool for self-expression and connection. It allows individuals to be included in their own photographs, preserving memories and sharing experiences with others. As Dunphy noted, “I think we all want to be remembered, and when we are taking the picture of ourselves, I can’t tell you how many families I know where someone is always left out of the photo because somebody has to take the photo. But with a selfie, you’re now always included.”
Cornelius’s selfie not only marked the beginning of a new era in photography but also highlighted the human desire to capture and preserve one’s own image. As we continue to evolve in the digital age, the selfie remains a testament to our enduring fascination with self-portraiture and the power of photography to connect us with our past and present.
