The Old Order and the New

Peter Henry Emerson's exquisite photographs had an important influence on later photographers such as Stieglitz and The Photo-secessionists. This book features Emerson's images of the Norfolk Broads and waterways, his photographs capturing the local inhabitants and the unique atmosphere of the region. This exhaustive study of Emerson's work draws on the collections of the Royal Photographic Society Collection at the National Museum of Photography, Film and Television, in Bradford, England, and the National Museum of Photography. Featuring a selection of 65 color plates, as well as thumbnails of the artist's published prints, the book also includes essays discussing Emerson's innovative focus and printing techniques and offers a reinterpretation of his most iconic image, "Gathering Water Lilies". A biography of Emerson is provided by the artist's great-grandson, Stephen Hyde, and Philippa Wright examines why Emerson placed his work in selected collections in order to cement his reputation.