Photography Collection

100 years have now passed since the first commercially applicable method of colour photography was introduced. The method of colouring potato starch and making it light sensitive was publicized by the Lumière brothers in 1907 under the name "Autochrome". Fixed on a glass-plate this process resulted in the first coloured photography one century ago. The variable grain in Autochromes is still very important for today's photography - digital photography, colour printing and silk screens are based on it.

Even in their early stages, Autochromes were compared to the paintings of the pointillists and one can not help but be reminded of works of impressionism when taking in the strength of the colours and the painting-like depth of these impressions on glass.


Louis Steele, n.t. (Ostende), c. 1912, Lumière Autochrome, 11,9 x 8.9 cm

This collection, assembled over many years from dealers and fellow collectors worldwide, is now on view for the public for the first time. It was shown at Galerie Meyer in Paris. Using especially designed presentation frames Galerie Daniel Blau is now exhibiting these photography, dating from 1895 to 1920 now in Munich, Germany. Among other photographers, the images of artists as Lumière, Gimpel and Knott are shown. Atmospheric scenes of Parisian alleys hang by lively squares, large parks by lonely ruins. Rugged cliffs can be viewed alongside calm ocean bays, while the intimate effect of the intense colours draws the viewer in.

The gallery already presented Autochromes at Paris Photo. "We have been content with the sales there", said a spokesman. The gallery constantly tries to extend their own collection of those colour photographs full of tradition.

Autochromes - The Rise of Colour Photography, till 24th December, Galerie Daniel Blau, Odeonsplatz 12, Munich, Germany.

Open from Tuesday to Friday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday and Saturday by appointment.
Phone: +49 89 29 73 42, E-Mail: contact@danielblau.de