On the trajectory of a photographer and the legibility of photography: an interpretive sketch of the work of Claro Jansson<b/>

Abstract

Taking as a background Norbert Elias’ processual sociology, this article discusses the trajectory of Claro Jansson. ASwedish photographer who lived in Brazil between 1891 and 1954,this individual was responsible for an extensive work of photographic documentation. Among other important subjects, he registered episodes related to the Contestado War and the activities of the Southern Brazil Lumber & Colonization Company. Despite the great relevance of these records, it is inferred that its use has been predominantly as a mere illustrative source. Through the analysis of part of his epistolary activity, the author intends to demonstrate that the photographer’s trajectory is conditional upon attributing legibility to his photographs.