Phenomenal original French photo: friends in the forest academic male nudes 1901

Description: This listing is for a superb antique French photograph of friends at play in the forest, dated 1901 in a notation on the back that indicates these young men were students at the Lorraine School of Water and Forestry. Lorraine is the land of designer Emile Gallé and Art Nouveau, where abundant forests and natural waterways powered France's bustling glass factories at the turn of the 20th century. Forestry management would have been a promising local career. Gathered nude on a slope and clutching sticks, four of the men crouch in defensive positions like members of an ancient tribe scouting for signs of danger. Their leader points into the far distance and the others take note, peering ahead. A fifth companion looks in the opposite direction, his arm and finger raised in a gesture like a stern warning: Do not follow, it suggests. The photo reads like a painter's study and must have taken significant effort to stage, as well as an additional friend behind the camera. Having selected an appropriate location and positioned the tripod, the men would have stripped and fashioned their leafy coverings from nearby vegetation before assuming their poses. One can imagine the laughter and camaraderie of the experience. What inspired this project, and how far into the forest did they carry the camera? Are they meant to be a tribe of ancient Gauls, looking out over invading Romans, or are they perhaps recreating a well-known painting?? Answers here are unclear, but the effect of their efforts is remarkable. 120 years later, the image still delights, and perhaps that was the motivation all along. Photo is approximately 6-5/8"w x 4-7/8"h. It is in good overall condition with minor surface imperfections, marks, and scratches. Note minor fading along the left edge. See images to verify condition and feel free to ask questions. Terms of SalePlease allow (4) business days after the auction ends for processing and shipment. Condition, Shipping, and ReturnsFlaws, manufacturing defects, or damages—if applicable—are noted in the description above to the best of my ability. Returns are not accepted. Measurements are approximate. Photos will be carefully packed and shipped flat with tracking. Please only bid if you agree to these terms and conditions.

Price: 1250 USD

Location: Woodside, New York

End Time: 2024-11-14T22:19:28.000Z

Shipping Cost: 15 USD