Photograph by A.P. Maudslay
Black and White Photography
Photo
British Colonial Photography
19th Century
16.0 x 21.0 cm
British Museum
Giclée / Art Print
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Photograph by A.P. Maudslay
Giclée / Art Print
Reproduction Size
-
Total Price
$ 63
Collectible Description
Alfred Percival Maudslay’s Photographic Portrait of Rural Vanuatu
The photograph by Alfred Percival Maudslay, titled “Just a Moment,” offers a glimpse into the vibrant cultural landscape of Vanuatu during the late Victorian era. Captured in 1896, this monochrome print—now housed at the British Museum—documents a gathering of Ni Vanuatu people assembled before a simple grass hut, a scene that speaks volumes about colonial observation and anthropological inquiry. Maudslay’s meticulous documentation wasn't merely an exercise in visual recording; it represented a crucial step in shaping our understanding of Melanesian society.- Subject Matter: The photograph depicts approximately fourteen individuals—primarily men—engaged in what appears to be a communal celebration or ritual. Their postures convey a sense of solemnity and connection, reflecting the importance of social cohesion within Ni Vanuatu communities.
- Style & Technique: Maudslay employed a straightforward photographic technique characteristic of his time – direct exposure using a Kodak camera—resulting in a grainy yet remarkably detailed image. The absence of retouching preserves the authenticity of the scene, allowing viewers to appreciate the nuances of natural light and texture.
- Reproductions & Considerations: High-quality reproductions of Maudslay’s photograph offer an exceptional opportunity to appreciate the artistry of early photographic printing and to engage with a pivotal moment in Melanesian cultural history. Collectors interested in acquiring this piece should prioritize archival prints produced using pigment inks—ensuring optimal color fidelity and preserving the image's integrity for generations to come.
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Artist Biography
**early life and education**
alfred percival maudslay, a british colonial administrator and archaeologist, was born on 18 march 1850 in london into a wealthy family. he studied natural sciences at trinity hall, cambridge, obtaining a ba in 1872.**career and travels**
maudslay's early plans for a medical career were deferred as he travelled with his brother, touring central america, mexico, and parts of the united states. this journey sparked an interest in archaeology, which would later define his legacy. after returning home, maudslay again postponed medical school to travel to iceland in 1873. his chronic bronchitis led him to seek a warmer climate, leading to a series of positions in jamaica, trinidad, and eventually, the south pacific.**archaeological contributions**
maudslay's time in the british pacific colonies laid the groundwork for his future archaeological pursuits. he became interested in collecting ethnographic materials, which would eventually contribute to the formation of the university museum of archaeology and ethnology at cambridge. his friend, ornithologist osbert salvin, encouraged maudslay to explore the maya ruins of quiriguá and copán.**notable achievements**
* maudslay was the first to describe the site of yaxchilán. * he explored chichén in the 1880s, taking extensive photographs. * published the first long-form description of chichen itza in his book, biologia centrali-americana. * made a complete translation with annotations of bernal díaz del castillo's historia, which remains the standard english edition.**artistic legacy**
maudslay's photographs and writings have been preserved, offering a unique glimpse into the world of 19th-century archaeology. his work can be found in various museums, including the british museum (london, united kingdom), which houses several of his photographs.- photograph of chichén itzá taken by a.p. maudslay (16 x 21 cm, british museum, photograph)
- photograph of chichén itzá taken by a.p. maudsly (25 x 30 cm, british museum, photograph)
- photograph of copán taken by a.p. maudslay (31 x 25 cm, british museum, photograph)
**conclusion**
alfred percival maudslay's legacy is a testament to the power of curiosity and exploration. from his early days as a colonial administrator to his later years as an archaeologist, maudslay's work continues to inspire and educate.alfred percival maudslay
1850 - 1931 , United Kingdom
Quick Facts
- Artistic Movement Or Style: Archaeology/Photography
- Date Of Birth: 1850
- Date Of Death: 1931
- Full Name: Alfred Percival Maudslay
- Nationality: British
- Notable Artworks: ['Photograph of Chichén Itzá']
- Place Of Birth: London, United Kingdom

Glass option is only available in size under 110 CM
