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HISTORICAL PHOTOGRAPHS

 

THE TWO WAYS OF LIFE

1857

PHOTO BY:  OSCAR GUSTAV REJLANDER

This photo and its creator, Rejlander, were heavily criticized. Photomontage, photography direction and the use of nude models, were all rejected at the time. Rejlander composed this photo out of 32 different shots and named it 'The Two Ways of Life' he was clearly influenced by Raphael and the 'School of Athens'. The difference between the two was that in Raphael's painting the comparison was between science and philosophy. The technical difficulty and proficiency as well as the courage of the photographer are the elements that make this photo so special. Although there was a great reaction against him and his work he managed to attract wealthy buyers, among which queen Victoria was also listed. She bought one of the few copies of this photo.

 

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