Before the Tavern Possibly 1890 - 1896

Alfred Stieglitz captured this photograph, ‘Before the Tavern’, using a photogravure. The team of horses standing before the tavern is a striking image, carrying a rich tapestry of meanings through time. Horses have served humanity for centuries, symbolizing strength, labor, and progress. Yet, there's a deeper echo here, reminiscent of ancient friezes depicting triumphant processions or beasts of burden. In ancient Greece, horses were linked to Poseidon, embodying raw power, fertility, and instinct. We see this primal force harnessed to the demands of daily life. Even in our modern age, the horse continues to stir deep within our collective memory, evoking a longing for a simpler, more connected existence. The tavern itself, as a place of communal gathering, reflects our perennial need for social bonds and shared experiences. Here, the photograph not only captures a moment but also serves as a bridge, linking our present to the archetypal images ingrained in our collective consciousness.