Photography, Part 7: Spirit Photography
From 1861 to the 1930s, spirit photography was a phenomena that relates to spiritualism and the social focus upon science. William Mumler’s discovery of a double exposed plate showing a head in the background began a new public awareness in spiritualism that reflected upon a social movement towards science from religion.
Grieving families sought solace in the hope of reuniting with a loved one, and with the advancements in science (such as a move away from creationism to evolution and technical advancement), spiritualism became a reality for some. Though frauds, cartes de visite with the “spirit” in shot are rare and directly related to the concept of mourning.