[Rocks in the Auvergne] 1854

Edouard Baldus captured this image of Rocks in the Auvergne using photography, a relatively new medium in his time. Photography in the mid-19th century involved a complex alchemical process. Glass plates had to be meticulously coated with light-sensitive emulsions, exposed in large format cameras, and then carefully developed using a series of chemical baths. The resulting images, like this one, possess a unique tonal range and a remarkable level of detail. Baldus was fascinated by the textures and forms of the natural world. The photograph almost resembles a geological survey, emphasizing the layered strata of the rocks. This approach was driven by the expansion of industry and infrastructure, like the bridge in the image. This photograph straddles the line between art and documentation. By focusing on the inherent qualities of the landscape, Baldus elevates photography beyond mere reproduction, revealing its potential as a medium for artistic expression and exploration.