Isabel Wachenheimer in gestreepte jurk voor huizenrij, april-mei 1935 Possibly 1935

This photograph of Isabel Wachenheimer in a striped dress, in front of a row of houses, was taken in April-May 1935. There is an anonymous quality to this image, maybe because the artist is unknown. The small, rectangular format and black and white tones feel both intimate and distant. The texture of the gravel she sits on and the striped pattern of her dress contrast with the blurriness of the buildings behind, all suggesting a particular time and place. The imperfection of the image only adds to its emotional resonance. Look closely at the way the light catches Isabel’s face, a small reflection on one of her eyes. This detail draws us in, creating a sense of connection to someone who lived long ago. It is easy to look at this picture and think of the work of other photographers of this period, like Lisette Model. But as with all art, it’s best not to jump to conclusions, but just to keep looking and thinking.