Portret van George Doty 1924

This photograph entitled, "Portret van George Doty" was made by an anonymous artist. I really feel for this man. Who was he? Looking at this photograph, I can imagine the process of making it; I can see the photographer holding the camera, framing the shot, probably with a flashbulb attached, thinking carefully about the composition and light. He stands in front of a metal wall and we notice the detail of his weary face, wrinkled brow, and clasped hands. I look at his clothing and the attire of the people that stand to his side. There is a cinematic quality in the monochrome values. It reminds me of other images of the period, and the people from that time. It all makes me wonder about how images can reveal the world, and yet conceal it at the same time.