Man coming up subway stairs by Roy DeCarava (1952)

The photograph titled “Man coming up subway stairs” was taken by artist Roy DeCarava in the year 1952. This black-and-white image captures a moment of everyday life, featuring a man ascending the stairs of a subway station. The lighting within the photograph is subdued, with emphasis on the play of light and shadow, contributing to a sense of depth and texture in the scene. The man is dressed in a long-sleeved shirt and a fedora-style hat, which partly obscures his face. His posture and the movement suggested by his position convey the effort or purpose of his ascent. The atmosphere is reflective of the period and hints at the socio-cultural context of the time. The photograph’s composition and tonal range speak to DeCarava’s skill in conveying a rich narrative through visual art.

Other Photographs from Roy DeCarava

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