André Kertész. Washington Square Park, January 9, 1954
Credit: Heritage Auctions

André Kertész, a Hungarian-born photographer, carved out an illustrious career that spanned over seven decades, continuing to be active well into his nineties. Celebrated for his intuitive sense of composition and his capacity to make ordinary scenes extraordinary, Kertész’s work has inspired generations of photographers.

His photograph, “Washington Square Park, January 9, 1954,” stands as a testament to his mastery of visual composition. One of the key elements that strikes you immediately is the bird’s eye viewpoint. This elevated perspective allows the lines and curves of the landscape, fences, and paths to weave a sort of visual poetry, guiding the viewer’s eye through the frame.

At the heart of the image is a person in a black coat, positioned directly under a tree. This figure serves as a focal point, drawing the eye in and offering a human element that adds depth and relatability to the photograph. The curves of the fences and footpaths work harmoniously, leading the viewer’s gaze down to meet the bottom of the frame.

Upon a more attentive look, another intriguing detail emerges: a woman entering the frame from the top left corner. Her presence subtly emphasises the downward trajectory of the viewer’s eye, which follows the curves of the fences and footpaths.

The image’s simplicity also packs a punch. Its monochromatic scheme—snowy landscape offset by trees and fences, and punctuated by the two figures dressed in shades of black and grey—creates a striking visual contrast. This adds to the overall emotional resonance of the photograph, amplifying its impact.

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