[Study of a Sculpture] 1898 - 1902

Eugène Druet's "[Study of a Sculpture]" (1898-1902) is a striking gum-bichromate print depicting a nude male figure standing in a studio setting. The figure is depicted in a contemplative pose, reminiscent of classical sculpture. The dark background and the figure's simplified form create a sense of drama and monumentality, emphasizing the sculpture's presence. Druet, a pioneering photographer of his time, is known for his use of the gum-bichromate process, which allowed for subtle tonalities and unique textural effects. The resulting image is a poignant exploration of light, form, and the timeless beauty of the human figure.