Argentine photography finds its origins in the 19th Century. Several documents prove that, by 1840, a group of Argentines, while visiting Europe, met Mr Daguerre, founder of the technique. By the end of the Century, many amateur associations could be found active in Buenos Aires. But it's in the 30s when Horacio Coppola begins a new chapter in the local history of photography. While visiting Europe, between 1930 and 1931, he meets Grete Stern in Germany. Also a photographer, and a Bauhaus' student, she would later become his wife. In 1936, with the couple already settled in Buenos Aires, Coppola does a series of B&W photos of the city, where he shows his innovative research. Those photos are not only historical documents, but also one-of-a-kind examples of his aesthetic and quality as an artist. The MNBA is lucky to have one as part of its permanent collection.

Technique: color photography