Thé dansant op 19 April 1931. 1931 - 1934

This gelatin silver print, titled ‘Thé dansant op 19 April 1931’ was captured by Atelier Kurkdjian. Photography, as a medium, has always been deeply entwined with technology and social dynamics. The gelatin silver process, dominant in the early 20th century, allowed for mass production of images. In this photograph, the composition and the way it captures the essence of a social event becomes very important, reflecting both the artistry of the photographer and the social context of the time. The choice of black and white further emphasizes the tonal contrasts and textures, bringing out the details of the room. Notice the ceiling fans, the light fixtures, the wall paper, and the ornate upholstered chairs, all of which are imbued with cultural meaning. By understanding the materials and making of this photograph, we can fully appreciate its meaning as a social record, and as a work that blurs the lines between fine art and everyday documentation.