Portret van Hein van Steenis, staande op een bank Possibly 1934

This anonymous photograph captures Hein van Steenis standing on a bank; in other words, a couch. And like a painting, it freezes a single moment in time. The limited palette is just a gradient of greys, allowing for a focus on tonal qualities and the texture of different surfaces. What I love about old photos like this is the way light interacts with the silver gelatin, creating depth and mood. Look at the way the light falls on the side of the couch and highlights the texture of the fabric, rendering it almost touchable. The fabric of the couch, with its patterned surface and tasseled edge, creates a backdrop that is more elaborate than the boy himself. Although anonymous, this photograph reminds me of the work of Lisette Model, known for her street photography, capturing unposed moments of everyday life. Both artists embrace the beauty of spontaneity, revealing the extraordinary in the ordinary.