Twee jongens in klederdracht, staande op een steiger aan een meer 1920 - 1940

This monochrome photograph by G. Hidderley captures two young boys in traditional attire standing on a weathered pier. The composition is stark, with a flat horizon line emphasizing the horizontal expanse of the water and pier. The light, muted tones evoke a sense of quietude, almost stillness. The artist's careful arrangement focuses our attention on the shapes created by the boys’ clothing. Note the rounded forms of their caps and voluminous breeches which contrast with the hard lines of the wooden planks. This juxtaposition can be interpreted through a semiotic lens, where the soft shapes of the clothing suggest cultural identity. Their traditional dress acts as a signifier, pointing to the values of community and heritage. The flatness of the scene and the absence of strong tonal contrasts serve to flatten the image, creating a sense of distance. This aesthetic choice encourages us to consider the image not just as a depiction of a scene, but as an exploration of form, structure, and cultural codes.