Portrait of Miss Ben-Yusuf
By Zaida Ben-Yusuf
Platinum print, 1898
National Museum of American History, Smithsonian Institution

In this 1898 self-portrait, photographer Zaida Ben-Yusuf appears in a form-fitting gown and stylish hat, with a fur muffler in one hand. Her striking pose and disregard for Victorian conventions of dress establish her as a model of bohemian chic. Ben-Yusuf brought a contemporary flair to her portraits of others as well.