Francisco Carolinum, Autochrome
Exhibition
2024

The exhibition is dedicated to the internationally outstanding collection of autochromes and other early forms of transparent color light images. With the market launch of the autochrome process in 1907, the brothers Auguste and Louis Lumière set an important milestone in the history of photography. This technically advanced method was based on additive color mixing and an emulsion of tiny, colored potato starch grains on glass plates. It initiated the transition from monochrome to color photography.

Francisco Carolinum
Around 50 works were selected for the exhibition from the extensive collection of the Province of Upper Austria, which comprises around 1,000 early transmitted light color images. These include unique major works by the Lumière brothers and other pioneers of color photography, which illustrate the development of this fascinating medium.
An innovative viewing system allows visitors to experience these extraordinary and at the same time highly sensitive image treasures in their original brilliance. When approaching the specially designed stele, the light is activated, which illuminates the images. With the help of a pivoting mirror, visitors can view the works from different angles. This system ensures optimal visibility for people of different heights and creates an inclusive and fascinating exhibition experience.