‘Illustrated Picturesquely and Architecturally in Photography’: William J. Stillman and the Acropolis in Word and Image

William J. Stillman's 1870 album, The Acropolis of Athens, showcases a pioneering approach to architectural photography, where his images were noted for their clarity and poise, contrasting sharply with the laborious accompanying text. This study examines the interplay between word and image in Stillman’s work, analyzing it within the context of his intentions and the emerging genre of photo-books. It highlights how this album, as both an object and a genre, set a precedent for future architectural representations, notably influencing later works like Vers une architecture. The research delves into the implications of this duality for architectural history, offering insights into the evolving relationship between visual and textual narratives in documenting heritage sites.

(Ed.). (2015). ‘Illustrated Picturesquely and Architecturally in Photography’: William J. Stillman and the Acropolis in Word and Image. Architectural Histories, 3(1). https://doi.org/10.5334/ah.cw