Cristo with Thorns, Huexotla Possibly 1933 - 1967

Paul Strand made this silver print, Cristo with Thorns, Huexotla, sometime during his life, using light and shadow as tools to carve out form. Look at how the stark contrasts give the sculpture such a weighty presence, like it’s stepping out of the photograph. The texture is incredible, isn’t it? The rough-hewn face of Christ contrasts with the smooth fabric of his robe, making you want to reach out and touch it. The deep blacks and subtle greys create a somber mood, but it's also kind of intense, like Strand wasn't just documenting but really trying to capture the spirit of the sculpture. Notice the crown of thorns; each one sharply defined, a painful halo. Strand’s sharp focus reminds me of the work of photographers like Ansel Adams, who were masters of capturing the details of the natural world. Strand, though, brings that same attention to detail to man-made objects, elevating them to something more. It’s not just a photo, it’s a conversation.