Opzichter met werknemers c. 1900s - 1910s

This photograph titled ‘Opzichter met werknemers’ was created at an unknown date by an anonymous photographer. It shows an austere composition, and that makes me wonder about the relationship between the photographer, the 'opzichter' or supervisor in his white suit, and the workers who are seated on the ground. The silver gelatin print gives the image a timeless quality, which is ironic as it also captures a specific moment in time. I am intrigued by the details, such as the contrast between the crisp white suit of the supervisor and the darker clothing of the workers. The supervisor seems to stand aloof from his workers. Photography, especially when anonymous, opens a space of imagination around the artwork. It can capture the ambiguity of the scene, inviting multiple interpretations. It reminds me a little of the compositions of someone like Jeff Wall, but without the contemporary irony.