Accession Number1987/1.172
TitleMerced River, Cliffs, Autumn, Yosemite Valley, California
Artist(s)Ansel AdamsArtist NationalityAmerican (North American)Object Creation Date1939; printed 1980Medium & Supportgelatin silver print on paperDimensions 15 11/16 in x 19 1/2 in (39.85 cm x 49.53 cm);22 1/16 in x 28 1/8 in (56.04 cm x 71.44 cm);26 1/8 in x 32 1/8 in (66.36 cm x 81.6 cm)
Credit LineGift of Harry H. Lunn, Jr.Subject matterIn this photograph, a calm river winds through the center of the frame, its banks lined with trees. The light autumn foliage and black branches are mirrored in the glassy stillness of the river’s surface. Looming above the tranquil scene of the foreground, a wall of stratified granite fills the entirety of the frame, the craggy veins and fissures of its surface providing a stark contrast to the smoothness of the water below. The sharp focus of the photograph renders the textures of each natural element in an opulent clarity, and creates a shimmering, almost crystalline appearance to the scene.
Physical DescriptionThis photograph depicts a river lined by trees, while a granite cliff fills the background of the image.
Primary Object ClassificationPhotographCollection AreaPhotographyRightsIf you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit
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Keywords
California
Yosemite Valley
autumn
cliffs
granite (rock)
modern and contemporary art
national parks
nature photography
riverbanks
rivers
trees