Scene in Pleasant Valley, Maryland 1862

"Scene in Pleasant Valley, Maryland" is a photo by Alexander Gardner, taken in 1862 during the American Civil War. The photo, now housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, depicts a group of people gathered on the porch of a rural home. Gardner was known for his photojournalism, capturing the realities of the war through his stark and unflinching imagery. The composition of the image is a study of contrasts, highlighting the stark realities of wartime and the resilience of everyday life. Gardner's work, often characterized by its realism and historical significance, offers a glimpse into the complexities of the Civil War era.