Pueblo of Zuni before 1881

This photograph, "Pueblo of Zuni," was taken by John Karl Hillers. The monochrome image presents us with a study in contrasts. Light and shadow play across the rough surfaces, creating a dynamic, almost sculptural effect. Hillers uses a low angle, which emphasizes the height and volume of the structure, transforming a simple building into an imposing form. We see an emphasis on texture, from the uneven surfaces of the building to the rugged landscape, all rendered in stark detail. This interest in texture and form aligns with the late 19th-century shift towards realism and objectivity in photography. Hillers doesn't just document; he interprets, turning architecture into a play of mass and light. By focusing on the materiality of the structure, the image invites us to consider the cultural meanings embedded within the landscape. The photograph encourages a deconstruction of the image, allowing for an ongoing interpretation of the cultural context it represents.