Untitled (two birds cockfighting) 1951

Editor: Here we have Jack Gould's photograph, *Untitled (two birds cockfighting)*, located at the Harvard Art Museums. The composition is quite striking, with the birds suspended in mid-air against that brick wall. What stands out to you in terms of its formal qualities? Curator: The dynamism captured within the rigid geometry of the brickwork is key. Observe how the diagonal lines of the birds' bodies create a visual tension with the horizontal and vertical lines of the wall, emphasizing the conflict. Editor: So, you see the contrast in shapes as crucial to understanding the image? Curator: Precisely. It is through these formal oppositions that the photograph achieves its power. Consider also the tonality; the near monochrome palette further concentrates our attention on form and movement. Editor: I hadn't considered the impact of the limited color range before. Thanks for pointing that out!