Plate Number 154. Jumping, running straight high jump 1887

Eadweard Muybridge created this photographic study of a man jumping in the late 19th century. Here, we see a sequence of frames capturing the complete action, a modern-day echo of ancient friezes depicting athletes in motion. The act of jumping itself is loaded with symbolism. Think back to antiquity, to images of figures leaping—be they gods, heroes, or acrobats—evoking notions of transcendence and overcoming earthly constraints. This echoes in religious iconography, in depictions of the Resurrection, for example. In Muybridge's work, the man’s body is presented almost scientifically, stripped bare, yet the gesture resonates with this primal urge to defy gravity. This ambition to achieve a higher state has been with us since the dawn of time. This image taps into our collective memory, reminding us of humanity's enduring fascination with movement, strength, and the very human desire to push beyond our limitations.