Gerard Reve (en Hanna Michaëlis) na het ontvangen van de Romanprijs van de gemeente Amsterdam (voor Op weg naar het einde) 1966

This photograph, by Anefo, captures Gerard Reve and Hanna Michaëlis after Reve won the Amsterdam Roman Prize. It's a black and white image, so we notice immediately how light and shadow shape our perception, and also the emotional narrative of the piece. The tonal range of this print is fascinating. The photographer works with varying shades of grey to sculpt the figures, giving them depth. Look at the way the light catches Reve's brow. It's as if the light itself is another character in the story, revealing just enough, but holding back plenty too. The surface, a matte finish, absorbs light, inviting a sense of intimacy. What strikes me most is Reve’s intense gaze focused on what appears to be an unrolled scroll or document. His concentration contrasts with the more joyous expression of Michaëlis who is glancing sideways. It captures a moment of public recognition, but also an intriguing private contemplation. Like a painting by Richter, it's full of ambiguous meaning. Is it a moment of triumph or something more complex? It's up to us to decide.