The artwork “Zitkala-Sa,” created by Gertrude Käsebier in 1898, belongs to the Pictorialism art movement and is classified as a photo. The subject of the photograph, Zitkala-Sa, is portrayed seated against an ornate floral wallpaper, embodying the blurred boundaries between fine art and photography characteristic of Pictorialism.
In the artwork, the subject is captured in a contemplative pose, her hands delicately clasped over an open book that rests on her lap. The photograph emphasizes soft lighting and subtle gradations of tone, enhancing the serene and introspective ambiance. The subject’s long hair cascades over her shoulders, adding to the composed elegance of the composition. The intricate floral wallpaper in the background contributes complexity and texture, setting a contrasting yet harmonious backdrop for the serene figure central to the piece. This photograph exemplifies Käsebier’s mastery in blending artistic expression with photographic technique, rendering a timeless portrait that eloquently conveys depth and emotion.
