Portret van een man en een vrouw 1881 - 1903

Max Cosman created this portrait of a man and a woman using photography. The composition is dominated by the subjects, positioned against a backdrop that is both ornate and subdued. This juxtaposition creates a visual tension. The photograph’s tonal range is narrow, focusing on muted browns and grays. The man, standing, looms over the woman seated in a chair. A table with elegant legs further divides the space. The patterned carpet introduces a complexity that contrasts with the plain attire of the subjects. Structurally, the portrait presents a study in contrasts. The man’s erect posture and dark suit against the woman’s more relaxed pose and lighter dress evoke a play of power and passivity. The photograph’s physical degradation, seen in the scratches and wear, becomes part of its narrative, adding layers of time and history to the depicted scene. These formal elements suggest a cultural discourse around gender and social roles, captured and subtly critiqued through Cosman's lens.