Axel Paulsen, Champion Skater of the World, from the Champions of Games and Sports series (N184, Type 1) issued by W.S. Kimball & Co. 1887

This small chromolithograph from W.S. Kimball & Co. presents Axel Paulsen, the champion skater, set against a dynamic winter scene. The composition is neatly divided, with Paulsen's portrait dominating the upper half, framed by a luxurious fur hat and collar. The rosy hues of his complexion contrast with the cooler tones of the background, where miniature figures skate across a frozen pond. The interplay between the portrait and the skating scene is particularly intriguing. Paulsen’s direct gaze establishes a connection, while the skaters below convey a sense of movement. The flattening of perspective simplifies the visual field, emphasizing the image's two-dimensionality. This tension between flatness and depth challenges our perceptions, inviting questions about the nature of representation itself. It's a fascinating piece, reminding us that even a seemingly simple image can provoke complex interpretations.