Menelek 1896 - 1902

"Menelek" is a striking platinum print by F. Holland Day, created between 1896 and 1902. The image depicts a young man, adorned with elaborate jewelry and draped in animal furs, sitting in a contemplative pose. The use of deep shadows and dramatic lighting adds to the image's sense of mystery and grandeur, highlighting the subject's regal presence. Day, a prominent photographer of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, was known for his artistic and often theatrical approach to portraiture. This work exemplifies his fascination with the power of symbolism and the ability of photography to convey emotion and narrative.