Louis J. Steele

active early 20th century

Explore selected works

The image depicts a part of an ancient Egyptian temple complex, featuring grand statues of standing pharaohs. The statues are colossal in size compared to the surrounding environment. The material of the sculpture appears to be stone. The color of the statues is a weathered, earthy tone. One notable feature is the broken colossal head of one of the statues, lying on the ground in front of the standing figures. This head is intricately carved. The presence of these sculptures signifies the artistic and cultural grandeur of their era, standing as towering silhouettes against the vastness of the sky and desert landscape.
Louis J. Steele, Egyptian Statues, c. 1915, Autochrome, Gift of Charles Isaacs and Carol Nigro, 2006.169.34

Egyptian Statues

Louis J. Steele · c. 1915 · Autochrome ·  Accession ID  2006.169.34

The image shows a stone arch bridge from a lower angle, framing the view beyond. The bridge obscures the horizon, focusing on the structures and landscape beneath it. Below the bridge is a riverbed with rocks and a shallow water pool reflecting surroundings. In the distance past the bridge, there are rustic buildings with tiled roofs nestled against greenery. The scene is detailed, capturing the texture of the stone and the tones of the buildings. The color palette blends earthy greys and soft pastels of the structures complemented by greens of the surrounding trees.
Louis J. Steele, House under a Bridge, c. 1910, Autochrome, Gift of Charles Isaacs and Carol Nigro, 2006.169.35

House under a Bridge

Louis J. Steele · c. 1910 · Autochrome ·  Accession ID  2006.169.35

The image shows a shaded area beneath a large leafy tree, looking out over a peaceful body of water towards an island in the distance. The horizon is placed just above the midway line of the image, where the lake meets the island. The reflections of the buildings and trees on the island are mirrored in the calm water. A stone bench is positioned near us, slightly off-center to the right. The textured image features a soft, almost grainy retro feel. The color palette consists of muted greens, blues, and greys, with hints of brown and white. The island is populated with historic-looking structures, including a prominent bell tower, surrounded by lush vegetation, and is bathed in a gentle haze.
Louis J. Steele, Village on island, c. 1910, Autochrome, Gift of Charles Isaacs and Carol Nigro, 2006.169.36

Village on island

Louis J. Steele · c. 1910 · Autochrome ·  Accession ID  2006.169.36

The image shows a hilltop village in a mountainous landscape. The settlement is on terraces with pathways. Mountains are in the background, blending into the sky. The village has clustered buildings in warm earthy tones, contrasting with greenery. Trees and bushes frame the foreground, capturing light and shadow. The color palette is muted with earthy tones and pale blue sky.
Louis J. Steele, Bayardo, c. 1910, Autochrome, Gift of Charles Isaacs and Carol Nigro, 2006.169.33

Bayardo

Louis J. Steele · c. 1910 · Autochrome ·  Accession ID  2006.169.33