Condensor Possibly 1926

This photograph captures a 'Condensor' in what looks like the early 20th Century, made by an anonymous photographer, printed on paper. The grey scale creates a beautiful range of tones. There's something intriguing about the anonymity here. The condenser itself, this huge, looming piece of industrial equipment, becomes the focal point. The surface has a tactile quality, even in the photograph, you can imagine the coldness of the metal and the marks on the object, telling you about its history. The curve of the pipe, seems to point towards something unseen, an unknown purpose. The shadow cast behind it suggests an unseen space and the windows in the background feel like portals. It’s hard to know what to make of it. This photograph reminds me of Bernd and Hilla Becher's work with industrial structures; they embraced ambiguity, presenting these utilitarian objects as things of beauty, blurring the lines between function and form. Like their work, this photograph encourages you to reflect on the beauty found in the everyday.