Face of Our Time

work by Sander

Also known as: “Antlitz der Zeit”

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Last updated

July 15, 2026

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Antlitz der Zeit (Face of Our Time) is a photographic project by German photographer August Sander. Published in 1929, it was intended as the first in a series to provide a sociological survey of German society and its class structure. Sander's portraits were characterized by their directness, natural light, and subtle allusions to the sitter's profession and social standing through clothing and pose.1

The project faced challenges when the Nazis came to power in 1933, leading to the seizure and destruction of the plates for Antlitz der Zeit. Despite setbacks, including the loss of many negatives during World War II, Sander's son later published parts of his father's archive under the original planned title, Menschen des 20. Jahrhunderts (Citizens of the 20th Century).1

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August Sander
…published Antlitz der Zeit (Face of Our Time), the first of what was projected to be a series offering a sociological, pictorial survey of the class structure of Germany.
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…published Antlitz der Zeit (Face of Our Time), the first of what was projected to be a series offering a sociological, pictorial survey of the class structure of Germany.
Read More