Vier Chinese vazen en één Chinese ketel before 1875

This sepia toned photograph is an old book page by Ghémar Frères, and features an image of four Chinese vases and one Chinese kettle. The arrangement is symmetrical, with larger vases flanking a central kettle, all elevated on matching stands. The visual elements create a study in form and function, capturing not just the objects themselves but also the cultural and historical context they represent. The monochromatic tones emphasize texture and shape, drawing attention to the craftsmanship inherent in each piece. This photograph flattens the three-dimensional objects into a two-dimensional plane, abstracting their cultural significance. The choice of composition invites us to consider the interplay between the object and its representation, challenging notions of authenticity and the role of photography in shaping our perception of culture. Each vase and kettle is not merely an object, but a signifier within a larger cultural semiotic system. The interplay between cultural representation and the formal qualities of this image invites ongoing interpretation.