Mevrouw Rensenbrink plukt aarbeien in de kas c. 1900 - 1930

Curator: Richard Tepe’s photograph, "Mevrouw Rensenbrink plukt aarbeien in de kas"—or "Mrs. Rensenbrink Picking Strawberries in the Greenhouse"—offers a lovely glimpse into the daily life of the early 20th century. The Rijksmuseum dates it from about 1900 to 1930. Editor: It's got such a quiet, still feel to it. The light, filtered through the glass, makes everything seem hushed. And look at those rows of strawberry plants—they just go on and on, all contained in their little pots. There’s something very orderly and soothing about the whole scene. Curator: Tepe, as a photographer, was particularly interested in capturing everyday life, but often staged it with an element of pictorialism, giving his photos a painterly quality. It elevates the mundane into something a bit more artful. Editor: You can see that "painterly quality" in the sepia tones, right? It softens the image, lending it this beautiful nostalgic feeling. But also, the composition itself—the way Mrs. Rensenbrink is positioned, almost centered—creates a sense of balance and calm. Curator: It certainly reflects a social perspective of the time. Genre painting had moved into the age of photography; a desire to document daily life as well as an appreciation for naturalism influenced artistic approaches, so even everyday chores such as tending a garden or greenhouse, deserved our attention. Editor: Yes! You imagine all the hard work involved but also perhaps the pride in growing something yourself, creating this little Eden. It brings to mind thoughts of self-sufficiency. The social dynamic is present but also hidden in plain sight. Curator: Exactly. This image isn't just about strawberries; it whispers stories of a specific time, capturing details and daily practices and offering a peek into the values attached to them. Editor: It truly makes you appreciate the subtle beauty in ordinary moments. And makes me want to eat a handful of fresh-picked strawberries! Curator: Agreed! It is that tangible element that will draw me back to see it again, for sure.