Abolishing the hand-head entity
The old methods of reproduction, such as lithography and xylography, still required the “whole person” (in terms of integrity). His hand carried out what the head ordered. During the course of the industrial revolution and the related social changes, this entity was abolished through photography. The image (negative) develops through a physical/chemical process, without help from a person, and without his “craftsmanship”. His perspective of nature alone determines what will later be seen in the image.
“With photography, the hand was for the first time relieved from the most important artistic responsibilities. Henceforth, these fell alone to the eye which looked through the lens” (Benjamin, Walter 1977).
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