Henri Cartier-Bresson | Hyeres, France (1932/c.1980) | Available for Sale | Artsy. https://www.artsy.net/artwork/henri-cartier-bresson-hyeres-france-21. Accessed 6 Nov. 2023.
Henri Cartier-Bresson is well known in the photography world for his higher contrast black and white images, capturing intriguing subjects from walking the streets of various countries (Italy, France, India, Mexico, etc.). This image stood out to me in particular, and not only because of its price tag of $30,000-$40,000. The leading lines of the stair railings lead the viewer’s eye in a very successful way from left to right. The vertical lines help create depth in the image, and seem to visually and physically stabilize the thicker horizontal parts of the railing, which is why I think the image is so aesthetically pleasing. Overall there are great textures and lines in this image that I don’t think would have been very easy to notice had this photo been in color. Furthermore, the addition of the cyclist in the image adds an element of movement and excitement, and the curve of the road contrasts the other straight lines throughout the image. In terms of the composition, Cartier-Bresson waited until the biker was positioned between the wall and the railing, perfectly wedged in the negative space to add to the aesthetic of the photo, which also makes it easier to see the biker.