Objects

This is a portrait photograph of Helena Rubinstein (bust shot) in an oval frame, taken in a three-quarter view, at the Johnstone, O'Shannessy & Co. and Falk Studios in Melbourne circa 1902. Her shoulders are shown from the side, and she turns her head to glance over her left shoulder.

She is wearing a light dress with short, puffed sleeves. The back of the dress has a boat-shaped neckline, gently revealing her back. The dress is adorned with floral embroidery. Her neck is decorated with a coral necklace, and a dangling earring is visible in her left ear. Her hair is styled in an elaborate upward style, with a strand of curled hair falling over her forehead.

The photograph is set in a passe-partout with a sepia composition. The cardboard frame has a light-brown colour and features an embossed border around the photo, highlighting the elegance of the image.

The photograph dates from the period of Helena Rubinstein's emigration to Australia, where she established her first beauty salon. It was taken at the leading photographic studio, Johnstone, O'Shannessy & Co, whose partner was another photographic studio – Falk Studios, which is why both studio names appear on the cardboard frame beneath the photo.

Monika Harchut