Steve McCurry. Animals. Art Edition No. 101–200 ‘Chennai, India, 1996’

In Animals, we discover a different side to the famed photographer who skillfully explores animals’ complex relationship with humans and the environment.

Tenderness abounds, particularly in scenes of unkempt street dogs sleeping contentedly next to their human companions. But there’s also a kind of essential solitude, with animals belonging to no one and simply wandering through life with only their survival instincts to guide them. We witness camels caught in the crossfire during the First Gulf War; a shepherd from northern Pakistan tenderly feeding his goats; Beverly Hills designer dogs; race horses on a Hong Kong rooftop; elephants in Thailand, and many more images selected by McCurry from his vast archives.

This Art Edition comes with a signed print of Chennai, India, 1996. “Rats are worshipped at the rat temple of Rajasthan (called Karni Mata) that I photographed years ago. There are thousands of rats which have free rein throughout the temple vying for large saucers of milk. Photographing this child with her pet rat in Chennai reminded me of the time I spent in that temple,” the photographer commented.

Through McCurry’s lens, we discover an appreciation for each creature’s beauty and silent dignity. This kaleidoscopic collection is at once a beautiful travelogue and a touching tribute to the creatures who share our planet.

Art Edition (No. 101–200), with the print Chennai, India, 1996. The book and print are both signed by Steve McCurry.

Also available in an alternative Art Edition (No. 1–100) with a signed print and in an unlimited edition.