The Oldest Known Photograph

Contrary to the prevailing notion, the captivating tale of photography reaches back across the sands of time, spanning not mere decades but centuries. The awareness of light’s mystical ability to leave its mark on objects can be traced as far back as the 4th century B.C. Yet, it would be a French inventor named Joseph Nicéphore Niépce who would etch his name in history in 1826.

Niépce, armed with innovation and determination, embarked on an extraordinary journey. His mission: to capture the very essence of his estate. Armed with a pewter plate, he coated it with a concoction of bitumen of Judea and water, subjecting it to a two-day dance with the sun’s rays. The result, though resembling a mere smudge to modern eyes, is celebrated as the first-ever photograph.