Rol met donkergroen zijden lint c. 1925

Curator: Before us, we have a photograph titled "Rol met donkergroen zijden lint," which translates to "Roll with dark green silk ribbon," taken around 1925. The piece is part of the Rijksmuseum collection and is attributed to Gustav Schnitzler. What strikes you initially about this composition? Editor: An immediate feeling of quietude. The muted palette and solitary object give a sense of stillness, a held moment. The texture of the cardboard and creased paper contrast pleasingly with what I imagine would be the smoothness of silk within. It’s humble, almost utilitarian, yet… aesthetically compelling. Curator: Indeed, the choice of such a mundane subject elevates it through photographic precision. Observe the way the light defines the cylindrical form. The interplay of shadow and light accentuates its simple geometry. Note the carefully considered placement, emphasizing its material reality. Editor: I wonder, why photograph something so ordinary? Ribbon, in its role, adorns and connects, but also constrains, if one considers the darker symbolism linked to ribbon’s historical uses in nooses. Given this timing around the interwar, the simplicity depicted serves perhaps as a relief from all of the turmoil. What statement does this seemingly simple act of photographing this otherwise functional object, seek to communicate? Curator: This may be understood by contrasting this kind of simplicity of this object to the social upheavals that were disrupting tradition. But observe how the edges are frayed and the lid is crushed; the container itself, seems almost aged by recent struggles, and is reminiscent of the impact and struggles that have faded in the interim of the taking of this photo to where we now see it on display. The label bearing the declaration of 20 guaranteed meters reminds us, perhaps, to the more reliable certainties of physical quantity rather than political measure. Editor: So the choice of subject, an everyday object associated with notions of refinement or status in attire and craft, contrasts sharply with its presentation. Almost as if there has been some disregard, this isn't meant as some display, or advertisement as would become popular, rather the aged label, almost hints, however slightly, that it could act as an indication that what matters most, is already found. Curator: Precisely. By extracting this single unit from the bustle and bombast of period art and commerce, he provides an almost stoic recognition. Editor: Well, now when I gaze at this ribbon, there's less stillness, and far more intrigue, considering all these interesting details. Curator: Yes, indeed! What at first appears humble yields fascinating and crucial depths after closer inspection.