Jachttrofee met konijnen c. 1855 - 1870

This small, anonymous photograph presents us with two nearly identical images of a hunting trophy: a pair of rabbits hanging against a textured backdrop. The sepia tones lend a sense of nostalgia and distance, yet the depiction is stark in its realism. Consider the composition. The artist repeats the image, inviting us to compare and contrast. This doubling effect isn’t merely decorative; it serves to intensify the viewer’s awareness. The stark display of dead animals prompts reflection on themes of nature, death, and the power dynamics between humans and the natural world. The choice of rabbits—often symbols of vulnerability—adds another layer to this complex interplay. Note also the texture of the background, contrasting with the smooth fur of the rabbits. The rough against the soft forces us to consider materiality. In the end, the photograph invites ongoing analysis, leaving us to reconsider our relationship to images and representation itself.