The Baksan Valley and Adyl Range c. 1889

Curator: This photograph captures the Baksan Valley and Adyl Range. The photographer is Vittorio Sella, though the date of its creation is unknown. Editor: It's incredibly stark, isn’t it? The monochrome palette really emphasizes the rugged texture of the mountains. You can almost feel the chill. Curator: Sella was known for his mountain photography. He documented expeditions, capturing landscapes that were largely unknown to many at the time. Editor: Imagine the effort it took to haul the equipment needed for photography at that altitude, thinking about the labor involved gives me new appreciation for the result. Curator: Indeed. His work played a role in shaping perceptions of these remote regions. It speaks to how exploration and image-making are linked to broader cultural narratives. Editor: Seeing how these stark materials become this powerful image, it makes you reflect on our relationship with nature. Curator: Absolutely. It encourages us to consider how we, as a society, frame and interact with the natural world. Editor: A powerful look at our world, indeed, and a reminder of the means to capture it.