Relief of Queen Louise, Berlin Possibly 1886 - 1896

This photograph, taken by Alfred Stieglitz between 1886 and 1896, captures a detail of a monument in Berlin dedicated to Queen Louise of Prussia. Stieglitz, a pioneer of Pictorialism, employed a soft focus and tonal contrast to evoke a sense of romanticism and grandeur. The image focuses on the base of the monument, showcasing a relief sculpture depicting a group of figures in classical attire, likely representing virtues or historical events related to the queen's life. The intricate details of the sculpture, captured in sharp focus, highlight the artistry of the original monument. Stieglitz's photograph exemplifies his early interest in using photography to capture the beauty and artistic merit of other art forms.