Author Adam Begley has recently completed a new biography of the extraordinary French photographer Félix Nadar (1820-1910). Among the original sources that Mr. Begley consulted in preparing his biography was Nadar's Studio Visitor's Book (Ms. Coll. 21). The album was acquired by Thomas Wiltberger Evans, Philadelphia dentist to the courts of Europe, while he was living in Paris in the late 19th century. The album is a fascinating document that tells us much about Nadar's network of prestigious clients, who sat for their portrait in the Parisian photographer's studio. Begley has devoted an appendix to the Nadar studio album. As a result of Begley's biography, the Nadar album has been restored in the Kislak Center's Conservation Lab. The Kislak Center is pleased to host the Philadelphia launch of The Great Nadar, when the author will provide insights into Nadar's life and the Studio Visitor's Book will be on view.
