[Still Life with Books] 1870s - 1880s

"Still Life with Books" (1870s-1880s) by William Notman, a prominent Canadian photographer, is a striking example of the still life genre. The photograph showcases a carefully arranged composition of numerous books, stacked in various formations on a tabletop. Notman's meticulous attention to detail, evident in the sharp focus and intricate textures of the books, elevates this seemingly simple subject into a compelling study of form and light. The image captures the inherent beauty of the printed word and the quiet contemplation associated with reading. This work, now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, embodies Notman's mastery of the photographic medium and his keen interest in exploring the everyday objects that surrounded him.