VIEWS OF SRIRANGPATANA, SOUTH INDIA [SET OF 2]
Circa 1900s
Cyanotype print on paper
Indian Village Ladies and Kids
Circa 1900s
Photo Size: 8.6 x 6.5 inches
Library
Circa 1900s
Photo Size: 8 x 6 inches
Cyanotype is one of the oldest monochrome processes that do not use silver salts.
It is based on the reaction of iron salts to light, and it is a relatively quick, simple, and low-cost approach. A solution of ammonium iron citrate and potassium ferricyanide is applied onto the paper, which is then allowed to dry in a dark place. The print is exposed by contact under the negative. About fifteen minutes of exposure to natural light changes the composition of the iron salts. The paper is then rinsed with water to dissolve the unexposed iron salts, and dried. The characteristic Prussian blue pigment is formed during the drying process.
Although invented in 1842 by English scientist John Frederick Herschel, the process did not achieve success until later: its deep, intense blue and pictorial results did not appeal to photographers at the time, who were seeking a more realistic look.
It was used at first for essentially documentary purposes, such as copy making, architectural plans, and industrial drawings. In the 1940s-50s, however, it did draw the attention of two main photographers: the English botanist Anna Atkins, who used it to produce photograms of dried plants, and the French artist Henri Le Secq, for his work on the gothic monuments of Paris and his still lifes. The process finally became popular in the late 19th century. It was valued by the pictorialists, particularly Paul Burty Haviland, who were keenly interested in its aesthetic qualities.
Today, cyanotype is used by many contemporary artists among whom Nancy Wilson Pajic or Christian Marclay.
Text credit @ Visual glossary of photographic techniques / ARCP / Mairie de Paris, 2013
NON-EXPORTABLE
This lot will be sold in "as is" condition.
There may be some minor fading, yellowing, tears/creases scratches, or holes commensurate with age that may not be visible in the images.
The photographs on sale in this auction are rare, out-of-print and otherwise collectable, dating from the 19th century onwards. Photographs age over time and deterioration in a photograph's condition depends on many factors, including the original materials used and conditions of usage over time. Photographs will often show signs of foxing, yellowing and fading through usage.
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of ageing. Condition requests can be obtained via email. Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Storyltd shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.