Emmy Obermeyer, Tea Island, Lake George Possibly 1893 - 1896

Alfred Stieglitz made this photograph, Emmy Obermeyer, Tea Island, Lake George, capturing a serene moment in time. Stieglitz was a key figure in promoting photography as a fine art in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Here, we see a woman, Emmy Obermeyer, resting peacefully on a blanket in a natural setting. The image evokes a sense of leisure and intimacy, reflecting the cultural ideals of the time, particularly among the upper classes, who had the privilege of such tranquil escapes. Stieglitz often photographed his family and friends, capturing candid moments that offer insight into their lives and social circles. There’s a quiet beauty in this scene. The choice of subject matter and the soft lighting create a sense of harmony and escape, qualities that Stieglitz often sought to convey through his work. This photograph invites us to reflect on the relationship between nature, leisure, and personal identity, while also prompting questions about the power dynamics inherent in the act of capturing someone in a moment of repose.