By Jessica N. Roberts
May 18, 2001
This spring and summer, an exhibit of 19th-century photographic prints from the collection of American architect, historian and critic Russell Sturgis (1836-1909) will be on display in the John M. Olin Library.
The exhibit, titled "Architectonic Fixations: Photographs From the Collection of Russell Sturgis," runs May 25-July 31 with a new selection of prints on display every two weeks.
The Sturgis Collection is held by Washington University Archives and comprises more than 15,000 photographic prints of architectural, archaeological and sculptural work primarily from Europe but also from Asia, North Africa, the Middle East and South America.
The exhibit will include engaging topographical views, candid cityscapes, unspoiled interiors and revealing sculptures. Well-represented photographers include: Leopoldo Alinari, Beato Antonio, Edouard-Denis Baldus, The Bison Freres, Felix Bonfils, Carlo and Giacomo Brogi, Francis Frith, Moise Levy, Isaac Levy, Roberts Macpherson, Robert-Mieusement, Carlo Ponti and George Washington Wilson.
"The true 'collective' genius of Sturgis is exemplified not only by the overwhelming quantity and the superlative technical quality of the photographs chosen, but also by his personal interest in collecting images of those marvelous places less traveled," said Jay Kempen, archives assistant in the Special Collections Department and curator of the exhibit.
A well-versed world traveler, dedicated public speaker, prolific writer and highly acclaimed architectural critic, Sturgis began collecting photographs in 1858 to complement his ever-growing library on architectural subjects. This collection of photographs was purchased from the Sturgis estate in 1909 by the University's department of architecture for use as a study collection.
Sturgis was born and raised along the East Coast and during his formative years became increasingly interested in the then-modern architectural notions of pre-Raphaelite writers. After traveling and studying abroad for nearly two years, he established an architectural practice in New York in 1863. Though highly successful and greatly admired for his refreshing architectural designs, Sturgis is best remembered for his timeless written works on architectural theory and criticism.
The exhibit is free and open to the public, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. in the Special Collections department on Level 5 of Olin Library. For more information, contact Jay Kempen, archives assistant, at 935-5444, or special collections at 935-5495.
To view online images from the exhibit, go to: http://library.wustl.edu/units/spec/archives/guides/sturgis.html.
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