The artwork titled “Old and New New York,” created by Alfred Stieglitz in 1910, is a photographic masterpiece that belongs to the Pictorialism art movement. This genre emphasizes a picturesque aesthetic, often conveying a sense of dreamy softness. The photo vividly captures the stark contrast between the historical architecture and emergent skyscrapers of early 20th century New York City.
In the artwork, a towering steel-framed skyscraper under construction looms in the background, symbolizing the burgeoning modernity of New York. In the foreground, we observe more traditional and low-rise buildings, which exemplify the city’s architectural heritage. The interplay between the nascent, skeletal skyscraper and the established, older buildings creates a poignant juxtaposition of old and new, representing the city’s rapid transformation during that era. The overall tone is one of transition and evolution, as captured through the lens of Stieglitz with a distinctive soft-focus technique that is emblematic of the Pictorialism movement.
