Durham Cathedral 1912

This sepia photograph of Durham Cathedral was made by Frederick H. Evans, sometime in the late 19th, early 20th century. What strikes me is the contrast between the sharp focus of the rood screen and the soft-focus pillars, creating a kind of visual dance. It's like the photograph itself is breathing. The image is dominated by these massive pillars, rendered in soft shades that feel almost tactile, like you could reach out and touch the cool stone. In the background, the intricate rood screen is captured with incredible detail. Light filters through the cathedral’s windows, casting shadows that add depth and mystery. It reminds me of the work of Alfred Stieglitz, who was also pushing the boundaries of photography as an art form at this time. The way Evans plays with light and shadow, focusing and blurring, invites us to contemplate the spiritual and emotional resonance of this sacred space. It’s not just a picture; it’s an experience, an invitation to see the world in a new light.