When I first saw this picture, I immediately thought that Albert Londe had been influence or inspired by Eadweard Muybridge's work from a decade before. It is possible, however, that it was simply a matter of a blacksmith pounding away being a very common and relatable activity at the time.
I really like this photo. The harsh lighting shows off the body quite nicely. It is interesting that the tools of the trade are all present, but there is nothing on the anvil for him to actually hit! If they were going to the effort to stage a scene and include everything else, why not a horseshoe or something? And I kind of question the use of the sledgehammer....
ReplyDeleteSometimes authenticity only goes so far.
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