After Meryon - Le Stryge

The sepia tone of the photograph contributes to its somber, contemplative atmosphere. The artist’s approach emphasizes the statues’ smooth surfaces and sharp edges, highlighting their sculptural quality. The overall composition reflects a thoughtful adaptation of influences, notably diverging from its inspirations to focus on the statues’ serene strength.

The reverse of the photograph’s mount bears a reproduction of Frederick H. Evans’ original print, and the work is also associated with inspirations from Gustave Doré’s prints, though the artist has reinterpreted these influences. Current location: Victoria and Albert Museum.

Created in the context of late 19th or early 20th-century photographic practices, 'After Meryon - Le Stryge' intersects with the era’s interests in architectural, artistic, and literary references (notably, the title’s allusion to Charles Meryon and the subject matter echoing Gustave Doré). The photograph reflects a nuanced engagement with preceding artistic works.

As part of the Victoria and Albert Museum’s collection, 'After Meryon - Le Stryge' contributes to the institution’s holdings of late photographic works engaging with architectural and sculptural themes, offering insights into early 20th-century photographic reinterpretations of classical and literary subjects.