Gezicht op het Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam c. 1900 - 1930

This blue-toned photograph, titled 'Gezicht op het Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam' captures the imposing façade of the iconic building. It was made by an anonymous artist, at an unknown date. Look closely at the surface – it’s not just a flat replication but seems to be built up with layers, like a painting, maybe even a collage of different exposures? The limited colour palette gives a dreamlike quality. The artist has chosen a particular viewpoint, emphasizing the museum's grand towers and intricate details. The subtle gradations of blue create a sense of depth, but also a kind of flatness - you can almost feel the artist's hand in the dark blue shadows, dragging the toners to create a vivid impression of light and shade. It reminds me of Gerhard Richter's blurred photos-paintings. Both artists explore the line between representation and abstraction, inviting us to consider what we think we see. What do you see?