Although Karl Blossfeldt’s botanical photogravures are his most famous work, he was also a well respected sculptor and professor of art. His interest in and eye for form and texture are evident in these images, which are striking in both the complexity of the subject and the simplicity of his photographic style. He used a homemade camera and had his work published in 1929 in his book Urformen der Kunst (Archetypes of Art).

Whitechapel Gallery in London is currently exhibiting a selection of his images until June 14, 2013.

Karl Blossfeldt 1Karl Blossfeldt 9Karl Blossfeldt 10Karl Blossfeldt 6Karl Blossfeldt 7Karl Blossfeldt 8Karl Blossfeldt 5Karl BlossfeldtAll photographs by Karl Blossfeldt.