[Oak Tree and Rocks, Forest of Fontainebleau] 1849 - 1852

Gustave Le Gray's "Oak Tree and Rocks, Forest of Fontainebleau" (1849-1852) is a striking example of the photographer's mastery of the calotype process. The image captures the essence of the forest landscape, showcasing the interplay of light and shadow on the gnarled oak tree and the moss-covered boulders. Le Gray's work, often focused on the natural world, elevated landscape photography as an art form, establishing him as a pioneer of the medium in the mid-19th century. This work, now in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies his keen eye for composition and tonal range, leaving viewers with a sense of the forest's awe-inspiring beauty.