Edward Steichen, Luxembourger-American painter and photographer (d. 1973)

Edward Steichen: A Visionary Who Forged Photography into Art

Edward Jean Steichen, born on March 27, 1879, in Luxembourg and passing on March 25, 1973, was a true titan in the world of visual arts. This Luxembourgish American polymath wasn't just a photographer; he was also an accomplished painter and a groundbreaking museum curator, leaving an indelible mark as one of history's most prolific and influential figures in photography. His profound impact is often credited with elevating photography from a mere technical process to a respected and powerful art form.

Revolutionizing the Lens: From Pictorialism to Modernism

Steichen's early career was closely intertwined with the avant-garde movements of his time. He became a pivotal figure within the Photo-Secession group, championed by Alfred Stieglitz. Indeed, Steichen's arresting images graced the pages of Stieglitz's seminal publication, Camera Work, more frequently than any other artist during its impactful run from 1903 to 1917. Stieglitz himself, known for his discerning eye and high standards, famously declared Steichen "the greatest photographer that ever lived," a testament to his extraordinary talent and innovative spirit. Steichen's early work, like his evocative 1904 pictorialist photograph, The Pond—Moonlight, demonstrated his mastery of light and composition, anticipating the artistic heights photography would achieve. This particular piece would later make headlines in February 2006, when a print sold for an astonishing US$2.9 million at auction, marking the highest price ever paid for a photograph at that time.

Pioneering Fashion and Commercial Photography

Beyond the art gallery, Steichen also broke new ground in commercial photography. He is widely recognized as a pioneer of modern fashion photography; his stunning gown images for the French magazine Art et Décoration in 1911 are often cited as the first truly modern fashion photographs ever published. This was a revolutionary moment, bridging the gap between artistic expression and commercial application. His influence in this realm deepened significantly from 1923 to 1938, a period during which he held the prestigious position of chief photographer for the Condé Nast powerhouses, Vogue and Vanity Fair. Simultaneously, his sharp eye and sophisticated style were in high demand among numerous advertising agencies, including the prominent J. Walter Thompson. Throughout these years, Steichen's reputation soared, making him not only the most popular but also the highest-paid photographer globally.

A Call to Duty: Wartime Contributions

As the world plunged into World War II, Edward Steichen answered a different kind of call. Following the United States' entry into the conflict, he was personally invited by the U.S. Navy to serve as the Director of the Naval Aviation Photographic Unit. His leadership and vision were instrumental in documenting the war effort. In 1944, he directed the poignant war documentary The Fighting Lady, a powerful visual narrative that went on to win the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature at the 17th Academy Awards, further solidifying his diverse talents.

The Curatorial Legacy: MoMA and The Family of Man

After the war, Steichen continued to shape the art world, this time from a curatorial perspective. From 1947 to 1961, he served with distinction as the Director of the Department of Photography at New York's Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). During his tenure, he curated and assembled several groundbreaking exhibitions, but none were as globally impactful as The Family of Man. This monumental collection of photographs, first exhibited in 1955, aimed to illustrate the universality of human experience across cultures. It became a cultural phenomenon, seen by an astounding nine million people worldwide and translating into a best-selling book. Its enduring historical and cultural significance was officially recognized in 2003 when The Family of Man photographic collection was added to UNESCO's Memory of the World Register.

Frequently Asked Questions About Edward Steichen

Who was Edward Steichen?
Edward Steichen was a highly influential Luxembourgish American photographer, painter, and curator, widely regarded as one of the most important figures in the history of photography for his role in establishing it as an art form.
When was Edward Steichen born and when did he pass away?
He was born on March 27, 1879, and passed away on March 25, 1973.
What is Edward Steichen famous for?
Steichen is famous for transforming photography into an art form, pioneering modern fashion photography, his work with Alfred Stieglitz and Camera Work, his commercial success with Vogue and Vanity Fair, directing the WWII documentary The Fighting Lady, and curating the iconic The Family of Man exhibition at MoMA.
What was Steichen's connection to Alfred Stieglitz?
Steichen was a close associate of Alfred Stieglitz and a prominent member of his Photo-Secession group. His photographs appeared in Stieglitz's influential magazine, Camera Work, more than any other artist, and Stieglitz hailed him as "the greatest photographer that ever lived."
Did Edward Steichen contribute to the war effort?
Yes, during World War II, Steichen directed the Naval Aviation Photographic Unit for the United States Navy and also directed the Academy Award-winning documentary The Fighting Lady.
What was The Family of Man?
The Family of Man was a groundbreaking photographic exhibition curated by Edward Steichen at MoMA in 1955. It presented 503 photographs from 68 countries by 273 photographers, aiming to demonstrate the universality of human experience. It was seen by millions and later recognized by UNESCO.
What is The Pond—Moonlight?
The Pond—Moonlight is an early pictorialist photograph by Steichen from 1904. A print of this photograph achieved a record-breaking price of US$2.9 million at auction in 2006, becoming the most expensive photograph sold at that time.