Photograph of William Savage (1817-87), Winchester photographer and shop owner
Taken about 1865
This portrait, or self-portrait, of William Savage was probably taken in his own studio, which was located behind his shop at 97 High Street, Winchester (re-numbered 58 in 1869). As in many portraits at this time he is seated at a table reading a book. Displayed on the table are 'props' in the form of a cloth with tassels upon which is an ornament, and the chair-back appears to have an inserted needlepoint panel, this distinctive chair appearing in many Savage cartes-de-visite. These are appropriate items for a man who published guide books, in addition to selling china souvenirs and ornaments as well as items for needlework and embroidery in his fancy good shop.
William Savage was aged about forty-eight when photographed, by which time he had been taking portrait photographs in the form of 'cartes-de-visite', or visiting cards, for at least four years. He photographed many local citizens and dignitaries as well as at least one well-known national figure, Oscar Wilde.
The photograph may have been taken by Winchester photographer William Savage and is found in an album of his work.
