Alexander Gardner: Visionary Photographer of the American Civil War

Celebrated by the author as the most significant photographer of the American Civil War, Alexander Gardner brought us face to face with the desperate carnage in a manner and style as never seen before. Through his work Alexander Gardner pioneered a verity in photography that brings the viewer immediately to the battlefield.Gardner's photographs of Abraham Lincoln are cherished for the powerful connection they make with the president. His artistry and vision manifest themselves in the portraits of Lincoln and those of the conspirators in the president's assassination. Gardner was selected to make the official photographic record of the execution of some of those convicted of conspiracy in Lincoln's assassination. In recent years Gardner has become increasingly recognised for his distinct and original engagement with the war. In his penetrating new study Keith Steiner locates Gardner's genius - within the narrative frame of his photography. Gardner's ability and willingness to place his camera in close proximity to the arena of conflict promotes a style, which is the hallmark of many contemporary photographers. Engaging Gardner's character, photography, philosophy, and nature, Steiner studies not only the greatest photographer of the American Civil War, but one of the most profound photographers of the era. Alexander Gardner will appeal to those interested in photography, history, and, more importantly, the artist himself.