Bankers Glen Yuen Foo Monastery 1869

Lai Fong's 1869 photograph "Bankers Glen Yuen Foo Monastery" is a stunning example of the photographer's focus on capturing the natural beauty of China. The albumen print, now housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, depicts a narrow valley with towering cliffs and a small group of figures resting on a rock formation in the foreground. The composition emphasizes the verticality of the rock face and the depth of the valley, creating a sense of awe and wonder. This photograph exemplifies Fong's ability to portray the natural world with an almost painterly sensibility, showcasing his mastery of the medium.