Research by Dick Weindling (2023) Introduction The Linked Ring was formed in May 1892 after a disagreement within the Photographic Society of Great Britain (the PSGB became the Royal Photographic Society in 1894). The issue arose about differing views of photography as an art or a science. ‘The Onion Field Mersea Island Essex’, originally entitled ‘An old farmstead’, by George Davison (1890) Several impressionistic, soft-focus photographs taken with a pinhole camera by George Davison, were removed by the hanging committee of the annual exhibition in 1891. Following a row during the stormy PSGB council meeting in October 1891, Henry Peach Robinson and George Davison walked out. A total of 12 members resigned, and after meeting for a dinner at a London restaurant, they decided to set up The Linked Ring to promote the artistic potential of photography. Membership was by invitation only and included professionals and amateurs. They held an annual ‘Photographic Salon’ from 1893 to 1
Camden History
Stories about the history of Hampstead, Camden Town, St Pancras, Holborn, and other parts of London by Dick Weindling and Marianne Colloms. You can contact us using the drop down button on the right side of the page next to search. If you want to be alerted about new stories please send your email.