The First Frost 1886

"The First Frost" (1886) by Peter Henry Emerson is a striking example of the photographer's embrace of naturalism in his art. The photograph captures a scene of winter desolation with two overturned boats frozen in the shallow water, emphasizing the stark beauty of the landscape. The composition draws attention to the interplay of light and shadow across the snow-covered ground and ice, showcasing Emerson's mastery of the photographic process. The Art Institute of Chicago houses this evocative work, a testament to Emerson's pioneering contributions to photographic art.