Accession Number1981/2.160
TitleMonolith, the Face of Half Dome, Yosemite Valley, California
Artist(s)Ansel AdamsArtist NationalityAmerican (North American)Object Creation Date1927, printed 1981Medium & Supportgelatin silver print on paperDimensions 28 in x 22 in (71.12 cm x 55.88 cm);19 1/8 in x 14 3/8 in (48.58 cm x 36.51 cm);32 1/4 in x 26 3/16 in (81.92 cm x 66.52 cm)
Credit LineGift of Harry H. Lunn, Jr.Subject matterThis photograph depicts the steep façade of Half Dome, in Yosemite Valley, California, and was created from an angle close to its summit. Looming upwards into a deep black sky, the monolithic cliff face slopes down through the center of the picture, creating a composition divided by a series of bold, diagonal, tonal shapes. The mountain’s monumentality is emphasized by these dramatic angels, and suggests an almost fluid, wave-like swelling in the striated granite. The deep, sonorous blackness of the sky creates a stark contrast between the sunlit granite and brilliant white snow, and lends a brooding majesty to the image.
Physical DescriptionPhotographed near the summit of a snowy mountian peak, this photograph depicts a steep cliff sloping down through the center of the frame.
Primary Object ClassificationPhotographCollection AreaPhotographyRightsIf you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit
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Keywords
California
Yosemite Valley
cliffs
domes
granite (rock)
modern and contemporary art
mountain ranges
national parks
rock (inorganic material)
snow