Caféscène 1918

Agustín Casasola captured this bustling café scene, we don't know when, using photography, a medium which—like any other—requires careful mark making and composition. I'm struck by the tonal range of this image; look at the dark shadows against the bright reflections in the mirror, they lend an almost sculptural quality, defining the forms within the space. The photograph isn't just about what’s depicted, but how it’s depicted; the texture of the gelatin silver print creates a sense of depth that draws you in. I love the detail around the faces, each one a character in this crowded space, while the background dissolves into soft focus. It reminds me a little of Degas' interiors – a snapshot of fleeting moments. Ultimately, this photograph, like all art, invites us to bring our own experiences to the table.