National Galleries of Scotland

For his ambitious photographic project ‘People of the 20th Century’ Sander’s approach was highly methodical and based on an almost sociological analysis of Germany at this time. He divided his portraits into seven main groups: The Farmer, The Skilled Tradesman, The Woman, Classes and Professions, The Artists, The City and The Last People. This photograph is from Group Two, Portfolio Eight – ‘The Master Craftsman’. It shows a pastry cook standing proudly in a commercial kitchen. It is beautifully composed with a rhythm of curves mirrored from the chef’s bald head, through his large belly and into the bowl in his hands. There is a sense of authenticity and comfort to the image - this looks like a chef who knows what he is doing.