Ree met bladeren in de bek c. 1886

Ottomar Anschütz created this albumen print photograph of a deer with leaves in its mouth at some point in the late nineteenth century. Anschütz was a pioneer of photography, particularly interested in capturing motion. This photograph, while seemingly simple, reflects broader cultural trends of the time. The late 1800s saw a growing fascination with the natural world, fueled by scientific advancements and a romantic sensibility. Photography provided a new way to document and study animals. This image could have served scientific purposes, documenting animal anatomy or behavior. At the same time, it also taps into a popular desire to capture the beauty and tranquility of nature. Note the composition, where the deer is centered and appears calm, emphasizing the aesthetic qualities of the animal. Understanding this work requires considering its historical context. By researching the scientific and artistic trends of late 19th-century Germany, we can understand the cultural values and intellectual debates that shaped Anschütz's artistic choices. Through this process, we reveal the complex interplay between art, science, and society.