[Still Life with Game Birds] 1857 - 1861

Charles Nègre's "Still Life with Game Birds" (1857–61) is a striking example of a 19th-century photographic still life. The image depicts three dead game birds hung against a patterned backdrop, creating a dramatic contrast between the stark reality of death and the decorative elements. Nègre's masterful use of light and shadow highlights the textures of the birds’ feathers and the intricate details of the patterned background, demonstrating his skill as a photographer. The composition is carefully balanced, and the arrangement of the birds creates a sense of both stillness and tension. This piece is a testament to Nègre's ability to elevate the everyday into the realm of art through the medium of photography.