Lot n° 36
Estimation :
1000 - 1500
EUR
Léon Herlant (1873-1968) - 1 autochrome on Lumière plate, 12 - Lot 36
Léon Herlant (1873-1968) - 1 autochrome on Lumière plate, 12 x 9 cm. Micrographic Autochrome of Citric Acid, Léon Herlant In this micrographic auto-photo, Léon Herlant takes his experimental explorations a step further, this time capturing the image of citric acid in the form of an autochrome. This revolutionary process, usually used to record natural scenes, is used here to represent a chemical substance, revealing a universe invisible to the naked eye and exposing the intimate and fascinating structure of the citric acid crystal through a prism of vibrant colors.
Under the microscope, the crystalline texture of citric acid appears as a complex mosaic of geometric shapes, sharp lines and fine structures, enriched by touches of color that only autochrome can capture. The use of color, rather than simple white or gray details, adds an unexpected aesthetic dimension, making this chemical sample as captivating as a living, almost organic landscape. The colored dots scatter across the surface of the crystal, creating an impression of depth and movement that goes beyond mere scientific representation.
This type of photography, both scientific and artistic, explores the boundary between objective observation and the quest for beauty in microscopic forms. The work stands out as a daring act of photographic abstraction, offering a window onto a tiny, invisible world. It goes beyond the documentation of a substance, transforming crystalline structure into an artistic, almost abstract form, which could echo the work of modern artists in search of new ways of perceiving the world.
Léon Herlant (1873-1968), a man who was both scientist and artist. A doctor of medicine and pharmacology, professor and chairman of the Faculty of Medicine at the Université Libre de Bruxelles from 1930 onwards, Herlant was a perfect example of the spirit of his time: curious, methodical and sensitive to the beauty of the world.
In addition to his scientific work - including a book co-written with G. Billen in 1896, Micrographie des poudres officinales - Léon Herlant was a passionate Autochrome photographer. His photographs reveal an intimate view of nature and everyday objects.
His works include superb snow-covered landscapes, tormented studies of trees, and still lifes of great finesse, where colors burst forth in delicate light.
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