Edward Steichen, Luxembourgian-American photographer, painter, and curator (b. 1879)

Edward Jean Steichen, born on March 27, 1879, and passing away on March 25, 1973, was a true titan in the annals of art. This Luxembourgish American polymath wasn't just a photographer; he was also an accomplished painter and a visionary curator, consistently recognized as one of the most prolific and profoundly influential figures ever to grace the expansive landscape of photography's history.

A Pioneer of Photographic Art

Steichen's indelible legacy begins with his pivotal role in elevating photography from a mere technical process to a respected and powerful art form. His innovative eye and technical mastery reshaped perceptions of the medium. Indeed, his groundbreaking work frequently graced the pages of Alfred Stieglitz's immensely influential magazine, Camera Work. Throughout the publication's significant run from 1903 to 1917, Steichen's photographs were featured more often than those of any other artist, a testament to his prominence and artistic resonance during this crucial period. It was none other than Stieglitz himself, a towering figure in American photography, who famously declared Steichen "the greatest photographer that ever lived," a pronouncement that speaks volumes about his profound impact on his peers and the art world.

Defining Modern Fashion and Commercial Imagery

Beyond the art gallery, Steichen also left an unmistakable imprint on the commercial world, particularly as a trailblazer in fashion photography. His captivating gown images, featured in the French magazine Art et Décoration in 1911, are widely recognized as the very first modern fashion photographs ever published. These images weren't just about clothing; they introduced a new narrative, transforming garments into statements of style and aspiration. His influence continued to grow dramatically when, from 1923 to 1938, Steichen held the prestigious position of chief photographer for the illustrious Condé Nast publications, Vogue and Vanity Fair. During this incredibly productive period, his discerning eye shaped the visual language of fashion and celebrity. Simultaneously, his talents were highly sought after by numerous prominent advertising agencies, including the formidable J. Walter Thompson. This era cemented Steichen's status, not merely as an artist, but as a commercial powerhouse; he was globally celebrated as the most popular and, remarkably, the highest-paid photographer in the entire world.

Service During Wartime: A Documentarian's Resolve

When the United States entered the crucible of World War II, Edward Jean Steichen answered the call to duty, bringing his unparalleled photographic expertise to the war effort. The United States Navy recognized his extraordinary capabilities and invited him to serve as the Director of the Naval Aviation Photographic Unit. In this critical role, Steichen led a team tasked with documenting naval operations, capturing the stark realities and heroic endeavors of the conflict. His commitment extended beyond still images; in 1944, he directed the powerful war documentary, The Fighting Lady. This poignant film offered a firsthand look at life aboard an aircraft carrier, resonating deeply with audiences and critics alike, ultimately earning the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature at the 17th Academy Awards—a testament to his versatility and profound storytelling ability.

A Visionary Curator at MoMA: The Family of Man

Post-war, Steichen embarked on yet another profoundly impactful chapter of his career. From 1947 to 1961, he served as the esteemed Director of the Department of Photography at New York's iconic Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). During his transformative tenure, he didn't just manage a department; he redefined the presentation and appreciation of photography as an art form within a major institution. His most celebrated achievement during this period was conceptualizing, curating, and assembling the monumental exhibition, The Family of Man. This groundbreaking collection, comprising 503 photographs from 68 countries, aimed to depict the universality of human experience—birth, love, work, war, and death—through the lens of photographers worldwide. Its profound message and powerful imagery captivated global audiences, attracting an astonishing nine million people as it toured internationally. The enduring significance of The Family of Man was further cemented in 2003 when this extraordinary photographic collection was deservedly added to UNESCO's Memory of the World Register, a prestigious acknowledgment of its unparalleled historical and cultural value.

Record-Breaking Legacy: The Pond—Moonlight

Steichen's artistic brilliance continues to resonate in the contemporary art market. A striking example of this enduring appeal occurred in February 2006, when a rare print of his ethereal early pictorialist photograph, The Pond—Moonlight (captured in 1904), achieved an astounding US$2.9 million at auction. At the time of this landmark sale, it set a new global benchmark, becoming the highest price ever paid for a photograph at auction, underscoring the timeless quality and immense value attributed to Edward Jean Steichen's pioneering work.

Frequently Asked Questions about Edward Jean Steichen

Who was Edward Jean Steichen?
Edward Jean Steichen was a highly influential Luxembourgish American photographer, painter, and curator. He is celebrated for his pivotal role in establishing photography as an art form, his groundbreaking work in fashion and commercial photography, his service during World War II, and his transformative curatorial leadership at MoMA.
When was Edward Jean Steichen born and when did he pass away?
He was born on March 27, 1879, and passed away on March 25, 1973.
What is Steichen famous for in photography?
Steichen is renowned for several major contributions: pioneering fashion photography (e.g., his 1911 images for Art et Décoration), serving as chief photographer for Vogue and Vanity Fair, his artistic collaborations with Alfred Stieglitz and extensive features in Camera Work, and curating the iconic The Family of Man exhibition at MoMA. He also directed the Academy Award-winning documentary The Fighting Lady during WWII.
What was The Family of Man?
The Family of Man was a monumental photography exhibition curated by Edward Steichen for the Museum of Modern Art in 1955. It featured 503 photographs that explored the universality of human life and emotions across different cultures, attracting nine million visitors worldwide. Its historical significance led to its inclusion in UNESCO's Memory of the World Register.
Did Steichen set any records in the art market?
Yes, in February 2006, his 1904 photograph, The Pond—Moonlight, sold for US$2.9 million, setting a record at the time for the highest price ever paid for a photograph at auction.