The Beach at Sainte-Adresse, with the Dumont Baths 1856 - 1857

"The Beach at Sainte-Adresse, with the Dumont Baths" (1856-1857) by Gustave Le Gray is a striking example of a calotype photograph, a process he helped pioneer. The image captures the picturesque seaside town of Sainte-Adresse, France, showcasing a panoramic view of the beach, the Dumont Baths, and the surrounding cliffs. Le Gray's masterful use of light and shadow creates a sense of depth and realism, highlighting the beauty of the natural landscape. This photograph, now housed in The Art Institute of Chicago, exemplifies the artistic potential of early photography and remains a celebrated work in the history of the medium.