Divines Arêtes

We are in the Val d'Anniviers. A dying light shines its last rays on the high peaks of summits . In front of us, the immense traverse of the Zinalrothorn (4221m) reveals itself, captured after a winter storm. In the foreground, between light and shadow, the Arête du Blanc leads to the shoulder of the Rothorn, then to the summit North Ridge, dotted with numerous gendarmes. To the right, we see the sharp, steep ridge of the Rothorngrat. This mountain is the dream of every experienced mountaineer who wants to add one of the Valais' most majestic 4000 to his list. From summit, adventurers from the world above can contemplate the entire Zermatt valley, the Matterhorn and the other main mountains of the region. In the background, the Dufourspitze (4634m) appears, as does the Liskamm (4479m), with its two summits, and the great classics Castor (4225m) and Pollux (4089m).

This panoramic photograph captures all the winter beauty of this celestial world. For the time being, the sleeping mountains do not tolerate climbers, and steep skiers will have to wait for warmer weather to tackle these legendary faces. In this work, I wanted to convey the sense of depth so typical of the high mountain environment. These 4,000-meter peaks are separated by abysses, with only narrow ridges connecting them, finally forming the timeless landscape I'm so fond of. I also wanted to give perspective, thanks in particular to the highly poetic play of the clouds in the background. They give a unique texture to the sky, blending into the horizon in a play of contrasts that I love so much.

This photograph of the Zinalrothron is unique. The finishing touch to this unparalleled winter composition? the pure line of the White Ridge, which offers a perfect balance between whites and blacks. The interplay of colors and nuances is hypnotic and spellbinding. It transports the viewer into this mystical universe.