Beeld van een Boeddha hoofd en profilemet zijn haar in krullen die zijn ushnisha bedekken. Possibly 1873 - 1879

Editor: Here we have a photographic print by Isidore Kinsbergen, dating from the 1870s. It shows a sculpted head of Buddha in profile. The monochromatic image and smooth texture of the sculpture give it such a serene and timeless presence. What does this artwork evoke in you? Curator: Oh, this piece whispers of stillness, doesn’t it? Like a secret murmured across centuries. Kinsbergen really captured that sense of calm transcendence. And, the focus on the *ushnisha*, the oval mound atop the head symbolizing enlightenment…it’s like he’s trying to photograph not just an object, but an idea, the potential within. Do you feel drawn to something specific? Editor: I find myself wondering about the choice to photograph a sculpture rather than a person. What's gained, or lost, in that translation? Curator: Ah, brilliant question! It’s like a double layer of representation. The sculpture is *already* an idealized form, and then Kinsbergen photographs *that*. It pulls us further away from direct experience, towards contemplation. Makes you wonder about the nature of truth, doesn't it? I find myself almost hypnotized by the play of light and shadow. Do you feel like the texture of the hair comes across? Editor: It does, those snail-shell curls look smooth yet also densely packed together. And now I see it! Kinsbergen’s choice invites deeper contemplation. Thank you, I hadn't thought of it that way before. Curator: Isn’t it wonderful how a single image can spark such introspection? Like peering into a well and seeing the stars reflected back at you!