Some interpretations of early tintypes of women with their backs to the camera, believe the women are showing off their (lovely) long hairstyles. While very long hair was fashionable at the time, I like to think part of the popularity of this pose was a cheeky act of subversion.
With rapid technological developments in the late 1800s (including photography!) women began to fight for their own social equality. The camera allowed these women to create images of themselves, and they felt empowered enough to challenge the viewer by turning their backs to the camera and keeping their image to themselves.
This is probably the most breath taking Edwardian photo I’ve ever seen.
Two little girls playing with their cat by the foot of the stairs…not to mention the warm glow from the sun beaming down on them like sort of a dream. Wunderbar!