Jose Ortiz-Echague - Tapa dura

Publisher's note:"The unique style, tje choice of subjects and the mastery of technique reveal José Ortiz-Echagüe's photographs as belonging to the tradition of the great Spanish arts. Born in Madrid in 1886, Ortiz-Echagüe was fascinated by the camera and its possibilities from childhood. He became a military engineer and was subsequently prominent in the Spanish aircraft industry, uniting his interests in taking early aerial photographs from a balloon. This book presents a substantial selection of his photographs. The power, dignity and simplicity of his images of the Spanish landscape and people is dramatically enhanced by his use of the little known method of making prints. When French "fresson" paper became unobtainable, this practical man set about making his own. The tones and textures offered by this unique vehicle for his prints give them a physical beauty beyond that oof his brilliant use of the camera. José Ortiz-Echagüe gives an account of his works and techniques in an autobiographical essay and Gerardo Vielba has contributed a biographical note. The photographer has written detailed notes to the 48 duotone plates and there is a list of major exhibitions, prizes and awards".