Plate Number 146. Descending stairs and turning, a water jar on left shoulder

Eadweard Muybridge

National Gallery of Art

This is a photograph of a sequence showing the progression of carrying a large pot on the head. The image is a composite of multiple frames arranged in a grid, capturing the movements involved in walking while balancing and supporting a large, round pot on the head. The subject moves from left to right, showing each distinct movement as a step is taken. The background is lined, emphasizing the motion captured in each step. This series of photographs illustrates motion and was likely created as part of an early study in motion capture. The subject is draped in a flowing fabric, which adds visual interest as it shifts subtly in each frame.