John K. Hillers

American, born Germany, 1843 - 1925

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The image shows a steep rock face dominating the composition, viewed from below. The horizon is not visible because the perspective focuses on the towering cliff. At the upper part of the image, there are ruins of ancient dwellings perched on a narrow ledge within the rocky cliff, partially sheltered by a deep recess in the rock. The rock surface texture is detailed with linear striations running diagonally. The color palette is monochromatic, with warm sepia tones. Plants and shrubbery are scattered at the base of the cliff, leading the eye upwards to the distant ruins.
John K. Hillers, Ruins of Cliff Dwellings, Canyon de Chelly, 1889, albumen silver print, Gift of the UBS Art Collection, 2023.30.84

Ruins of Cliff Dwellings, Canyon de Chelly

John K. Hillers · 1889 · albumen silver print ·  Accession ID  2023.30.84

The image shows a rustic landscape with adobe structures. The perspective is slightly elevated, providing a broad view of the settlement. A solitary adobe structure is near the foreground, casting long shadows. The ground has pathways and appears to be compacted earth. The terrain rises gently towards the distant settlement, with fences and smaller structures scattered around. The sky is cloudless, blending into a neutral tone complementing the earthen colors of the adobe. The overall palette is monochromatic with variations in earthy tones.
John K. Hillers, Zuni Pueblo, 1879, albumen silver print, Gift of Mary and Dan Solomon, 2006.170.5

Zuni Pueblo

John K. Hillers · 1879 · albumen silver print ·  Accession ID  2006.170.5

This image displays ancient cliff dwellings nestled against a towering rock face. The scene features the grandeur of the cliff, which forms a natural shelter for the structures, casting shadows over them. Rocks and sparse vegetation are scattered on the ground, indicating a rugged, arid environment. The cliff dwellings showcase intricate stone constructions rising in layers. The rock displays horizontal natural striations, enhancing the sense of motion across the sandstone surface. The monochromatic color palette emphasizes the textural contrast between the rough stonework and the smooth canyon wall, evoking a timeless and monumental quality.
John K. Hillers, Ruins of Cliff Dwellings, Canyon de Chelly, 1879-1881, albumen silver print, Patrons' Permanent Fund, 2018.145.8

Ruins of Cliff Dwellings, Canyon de Chelly

John K. Hillers · 1879-1881 · albumen silver print ·  Accession ID  2018.145.8

The image shows a person seated against a dark, rocky background. The person is in a relaxed pose with arms crossed over their lap and leaning slightly to the right. They have medium-length dark, straight hair and natural features. Their expression is calm as they look towards the viewer. The person is wearing a light-colored, fringed robe. Nearby, there is a woven basket or mat and a slender stick or pole. The background includes rugged rocks and sparse vegetation.
Thomas Moran, The Empty Cradle, 1878, etching in black on silk, Reba and Dave Williams Collection, Gift of Reba and Dave Williams, 2008.115.3593

The Empty Cradle

Thomas Moran · 1878 · etching in black on silk ·  Accession ID  2008.115.3593