Portret van Juliana, koningin der Nederlanden, en Bernhard van Lippe-Biesterfeld 1936

This photograph of Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard was made by Joseph Sleding, though we don't know exactly when. The tonal range in this black and white image offers a study in subtle contrasts, and is all about texture. Look at the Prince’s tweed suit. It’s like a field of tiny dark dashes, pulling into focus and then dissolving again. Then move to the Queen’s plaid jacket, where the fabric renders depth and form. The process here feels un-precious, like the image-maker has captured something raw and real. I'm drawn to the way the darks of the bouquet contrast with the lightness of the Queen's dress, it feels both joyful and serious at the same time. The composition reminds me a little bit of the work of Lisette Model, whose street photography also managed to capture something tender and vulnerable. Ultimately, it is about the way in which images can invite us to look more closely at the world.