Sanctuary, A Bird Masque — Arnold Genthe, 1913

A mysterious bird-like figure stands between towering garden hedges in this remarkable 1913 photograph by Arnold Genthe. Dressed in an elaborate theatrical costume with an elongated beak, hanging wings, and exaggerated bird feet, the performer appears almost surreal against the dark natural surroundings.

The photograph records a rehearsal scene from Percy MacKaye’s Sanctuary, A Bird Masque, associated with the dedication of the Meriden Bird Club sanctuary in New Hampshire. Genthe’s atmospheric monochrome photography transforms the garden pathway into a natural stage, creating an unusual intersection of theater, wildlife symbolism, conservation, and early twentieth-century photography.

Artwork Details

• Artist: Arnold Genthe (1869–1942)
• Title: Scene from Sanctuary, A Bird Masque
• Original title: Scene from Sanctuary, A Bird Masque
• Series: Arnold Genthe Photograph Collection
• Date: September 1913
• Period: Early 20th century
• Place of Origin: New Hampshire, United States
• Medium: Glass negative, black-and-white photograph

Framed Print Details

• Fine art printing: Professional 12-color fine art printing technology produces vivid, accurate colors with strong tonal depth and significantly greater nuance than standard 4-color inkjet printing.
• Paper: Smooth premium matte paper with a clean, glare-free finish.
• Paper weight: 200 gsm (80 lb).
• Paper thickness: 0.26 mm (10.3 mils).
• Frame material: Durable pine wood.
• Frame dimensions: Approximately 20 mm (0.79 in) deep and 10–14 mm (0.4–0.6 in) wide.
• Protection: Shatterproof plexiglass protects the print while keeping the framed artwork lightweight.
• Ready to hang: A hanging kit is included, allowing the framed print to be mounted directly on the wall.
• Available sizes: Offered in a range of sizes to suit different spaces.
• Materials: Printed using FSC-certified paper and wood where available.
• Production: Each framed print is produced to order through a trusted international network of professional print studios.
• Shipping: Worldwide shipping is available.
• Made to order: There is no minimum order quantity. Each piece is printed and assembled on demand, reducing unnecessary stock and waste.

Exact frame dimensions, component availability, and production specifications may vary slightly depending on the selected size and destination.