This exhibition showcases a selection of photographs from the archive of the Marubi photo studio (1856-1959), featuring three generations of photographers. It presents studio portraits of diverse individuals, from royalty and bourgeoisie to everyday citizens, offering a glimpse into Albanian history and society.
The exhibition 'Dynasty Marubi – A Hundred Years of Albanian Studio Photography' delves into the extensive archive of the Marubi photo studio, which operated from 1856 to 1959. Founded by the Italian Pietro Marubi, the studio was later managed by his adopted son Kel and then by Kel's son Gegë, spanning three generations of photographers. The collection comprises approximately 150,000 glass negatives, offering a rich historical, sociological, cultural, anthropological, and artistic record.
The photographs capture a wide spectrum of Albanian society, including the urban bourgeoisie, shepherds, dignitaries like the Ottoman emperor and King Zog, and even individuals from less conventional walks of life. The collection provides insights into the turbulent history of Albania, from Ottoman times through the communist period, as well as documenting social rituals and folkloric costumes. The exhibition serves as an introduction to the photographic heritage of a nation often overlooked in European history.
This exhibition is presented as part of Foam's ongoing series exploring photo studios, following previous exhibitions such as 'Portraits from Isfahan', 'Foto Galatasaray - Maryam Sahinyan’s Photo Studio', and 'Disfarmer - The Vintage Prints'. It reflects a broader contemporary interest in vernacular photography and its significance as both social history and art.