Liberiaanse ridderorde (Order of the Star of Africa), ontvangen door Willem Drees c. 1956

Editor: Here we see a still life photograph, created around 1956, showcasing the "Liberiaanse Ridderorde," or Liberian Order of the Star of Africa, received by Willem Drees. The mixed media quality adds depth. The medals rest in their box. What do you see here? Curator: Formally, the work arranges objects within a defined space, a box. The eye is drawn to the stark contrast between the plush, dark velvet lining and the intricate metalwork of the medals themselves. Observe how the photographer uses light to emphasize the texture, creating a hierarchical arrangement with the bow and topmost medal taking precedence. The geometry of the starburst patterns competes with the softer folds of the ribbon, setting up a visual tension. What do you notice in terms of symmetry? Editor: The composition isn’t perfectly symmetrical, which makes it feel more lifelike, less staged. It gives a sense of depth to the velvet behind the awards. Curator: Indeed. This near-symmetry contributes to the work’s dynamic quality. It invites us to visually explore the formal elements – color, texture, line, and form – to understand how the photographer builds meaning, rather than simply documenting an object. Does that adjustment in expectation inform any further perspective? Editor: It does, it brings forth what stands for attention and how objects and awards relate to prestige as a construct of symbolism. Thanks, that made me think. Curator: Precisely! Paying close attention to compositional elements encourages an enriched perception of the photographer's work, emphasizing material value within constructed systems.