A Peep through the Arch, Wissahickon

Francis T. Fassitt

National Gallery of Art

This image shows an old sepia-toned stereographic photograph of a scene under a stone arch bridge. The viewpoint is from beneath the arch looking out towards a small creek. The horizon is low beyond the arch and is obscured by bare winter trees. The stone arch is textured with visible individual bricks forming a classic structure. The photo has a monochromatic palette of subdued browns and grays. Closest to the viewer are uneven stone and rocky surfaces under the arch. In the distance, there is a figure relaxing against a slope beside the creek. The water in the creek reflects light, providing contrast to the darker tones of the stones and trees.