Edward Steichen (1879-1973) was an American photographer, painter, and curator. Born in Luxembourg, he immigrated to the United States with his family at the age of two. Steichen began his career as a painter, but soon turned to photography, becoming one of the most influential photographers of the 20th century. He was a pioneer in the use of photography as an art form, and his work helped to establish photography as a legitimate medium of artistic expression. Steichen was also a curator, organizing groundbreaking exhibitions of photography at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City. He served as a photographer in both World War I and World War II, and his images of the war helped to shape public opinion and raise awareness of the human cost of conflict. Steichen's work is characterized by its technical mastery, its emotional depth, and its ability to capture the essence of his subjects. He died in 1973 at the age of 93, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest photographers of all time.