Experience 19th century Canada through the lens of a pioneer of photography. See the iconic images produced by William Notman (1826–1891), the first Canadian photographer to gain an international reputation.
Introducing a modern approach to photography, Notman created some of our most stunning windows onto the past. Through 300 vintage prints and objects from the McCord Museum, this exhibition presents a comprehensive portrait of Victorian Canada and celebrates the innovation and artistry of the man who captured it.
Photo: Wm. Notman & Son, A. H. Buxton, Montréal, 1887 © McCord Museum
The Exhibition in Pictures
Popham babyWm. Notman & Son, Montréal, 1893.
II-102221-P1
© McCord Museum
G. Conway and friendsWm. Notman & Son, Montréal, 1901.
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© McCord Museum
The Earl of Dunraven and his valet, Mr. CampbellWilliam Notman, Montréal, 1875.
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© McCord Museum
Miss FraserWm. Notman & Son, Montréal, 1897.
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© McCord Museum
Dismantling cofferdam cribWilliam Notman, Victoria Bridge, Montréal, 1859.
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© McCord Museum
Alex. StrathyNotman & Sandham, Montréal, 1882.
II-66358.1-P1
© McCord Museum
Missie Phyllis Joseph and dogWm. Notman & Son, Montréal, 1895.
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© McCord Museum
Girls’ hockey team, Royal Victoria CollegeWilliam Notman & Son Ltd., Montréal, 1920.
II-234418_150401-P1
© McCord Museum
Mrs. William C. BompasWm. Notman & Son, Montréal, 1896.
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© McCord Museum
Sir William LoganWilliam Notman, Montréal, 1869-1870.
I-42425A_160505-P1
© McCord Museum
“Milkmaids” at the Art Gallery fairWm. Notman & Son, Montréal, 1888.
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© McCord Museum
Mrs. E. H. KingWilliam Notman, Montréal, 1868.
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© McCord Museum
Bute House skating partyWilliam Notman, Montréal, composite photograph, 1873.
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© McCord Museum
100-ton mountain engine on the Canadian Pacific RailwayWilliam McFarlane Notman, near Field, B.C., 1889.
VIEW-2508
© McCord Museum
Curling groupWilliam Notman, Montréal, 1867.
I-26036.1
© McCord Museum
Mrs. McGill’s dogsWm. Notman & Son, Montréal, 1913.
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© McCord Museum
A McCord Museum exhibition
This project has been made possible in part by the Government of Canada.