Artwork Page for St. Anthony Falls from Across the River

Details / Information for St. Anthony Falls from Across the River

St. Anthony Falls from Across the River

c. 1853–54

America

Medium
daguerreotype, half-plate
Measurements
Image: 10.8 x 16.5 cm (4 1/4 x 6 1/2 in.); Case: 12 x 15.3 cm (4 3/4 x 6 in.); Matted: 50.8 x 61 cm (20 x 24 in.)
Credit Line
John L. Severance Fund 2002.40
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Description

In this image of St. Anthony Falls, the unidentified daguerreotypist made an "instantaneous view" of a remarkable natural wonder, rendering its specific geological formation with exacting clarity. Above a narrow channel where the Mississippi River runs between steep bluffs in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the falls churns away at the bedrock over which it descends. Named by Father Louis Hennepin during his travels in 1680, it is the only significant waterfall on the entire Mississippi River. The specific motivations of the photographer remain unknown. He or she may have wished the photograph to be scientific and documentary, a valuable visual aid for an artist, or just a reminder to a curious resident. No doubt, this daguerreotype was a rare image of the environment's unspoiled condition before the mid 1850s, when demand for an inexpensive energy source irreparably changed this area from a natural to industrial landscape.
A horizontally oriented daguerreotype, framed within an arched gold mat, depicts a wide waterfall spilling over a jagged ledge. In the foreground, dark earth and wooden planks lead to rushing, blurred water. Dense trees line the far bank, while small buildings sit on the distant horizon at the right. The monochromatic scene is cast in dark tones, marked with fine scratches and surface wear that create a hazy, aged appearance.

St. Anthony Falls from Across the River

c. 1853–54

America

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