Composition of Ten Pieces, New York 1979

"Composition of Ten Pieces, New York" (1979) is a striking black and white photograph by Irving Penn. Penn, known for his minimalist and geometric still lifes, creates an intricate interplay of shapes and textures. The image features ten distinct objects, primarily composed of geometric forms, including blocks and cylindrical elements, arranged in a seemingly random yet balanced composition. Their contrasting shades of gray against a stark white background accentuate the details and shadows of the objects, highlighting Penn's masterful control of light and shadow. This work showcases Penn's signature style and his exploration of abstract form through everyday objects, inviting viewers to ponder the interplay of composition and visual language.