Columbia University, Night

1910

Karl Struss

Associated Names
Karl Struss

Artist, American, 1886 - 1981

The image shows a view from below of a grand staircase leading to a structure partially obscured by shadow and architectural elements. Closest to the viewer, the steps ascend diagonally across the frame, guiding the eye upwards to a large urn on a balustrade. In the distance, behind the urn, a dome with a cross and columns is visible, shrouded in twilight glow. Tall trees rise starkly against the sky, creating a sense of depth and framing the architectural elements. The horizon is obscured, and the image conveys a tranquil yet solemn ambiance due to its somber coloration and soft focus. The color palette is dominated by deep sepia tones, giving a warm, vintage feel. The style is soft, with gentle transitions and blurred outlines creating an ethereal quality.
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Artwork overview

  • Medium

    gum dichromate over platinum print processed with mercury

  • Credit Line

    Robert B. Menschel Fund

  • Dimensions

    image: 24.1 × 19.9 cm (9 1/2 × 7 13/16 in.)
    mount: 24.4 x 19.9 cm (9 5/8 x 7 13/16 in.)

  • Accession Number

    2007.59.2


Artwork history & notes

Provenance

Private collection; NGA purchase (through Charles Isaacs Photographs Inc., New York), 2007.

Associated Names

Exhibition History

2009

  • In the Darkroom: Photographic Processes Before the Digital Age, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2009 - 2010, unnumbered catalogue.

2014

  • A Subtle Beauty: Platinum Photographs from the Collection, National Gallery of Art, Washington, 2014 - 2015, unnumbered catalogue.

Inscriptions

Lower left in graphite: (c) Karl Struss 1910. On verso, upper left in graphite: Copr. "Columbia University, Night" / (c) Karl Struss 1910. / Gum Platinum, waxed.

Wikidata ID

Q64156159

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