Climbing with Pieter Dirk van der Poel, Canton of Valais 1944

"Climbing with Pieter Dirk van der Poel, Canton of Valais" is a black and white photograph taken by Robert Frank in 1944. It depicts a climber ascending a rocky precipice in the Swiss Alps. Frank's signature candid style, reminiscent of street photography, captures the climber's tense focus and the rugged beauty of the mountainous landscape. The photograph, part of Frank's early work, predates his iconic "The Americans" series, which brought him international acclaim. This image provides a glimpse into Frank's early development as a photographer, showcasing his ability to capture moments of human activity within the context of a breathtaking natural environment.