The four photographers represented in this project - Sir William Abney, Sydney Spencer, George Finch and Frank Smythe - were among the most remarkable figures in the history of British mountaineering. They were united not only by their love of the mountains but by an extraordinary richness of talent and achievement. Collectively they were soldiers, scientists, engineers, chemists, authors, explorers, lecturers and administrators whose influence extended far beyond the summits they climbed. Each recognised that photography should be more than an image: it could preserve the character of landscapes, record pioneering ascents, document the people who made them possible and communicate the experience of the mountains to audiences who would never venture there themselves. Their photographs are both historical documents and works of art, recording the formative years of alpinism – and indeed photography - through the eyes of men who helped to shape it.

All prints are produced in platinum palladium in Salto Ulbeek’s atelier in Belgium. For full details on the availability of edition numbers and sizes, please select the Enquire button and share the title of the print or prints that you are interested in.

The photographs shown here below are those available to view at the Alpine Club in London from 7th September to 31st October 2026. In addition to the prints, we will be showing four folios, each including eight platinum palladium prints and an essay on the photographer - these will be available to view at the Club from 1st October.