Art Review: Jardin Des Tuilleries (Merry Go Round) Photograph

In the 1950's photography was just beginning to gain notice in the art world. Izis (Israel Bidermanas), was a respected Lithuanian photographer who worked for Paris Match for several decades. In 1947 when his photo Jardin des Tuilleries (Merry Go Round), was taken, Izis captured some of the essence of Paris in the mid twentieth century.

When examining Izis's photo, the first thing you notice is the contrast between darkness and light; between the galloping horses and the bare trees in the background. It is winter and you can imagine there is a chill in the air and yet nothing will halt the frolicking innocence of children. The carousel stands still for now, but it will soon be circling again. There is the contrast between simple and ornate. Even the garishness of the colors is absent-the carousel stands in simple beautiful silence.

Although we only see a corner of the carousel, the photo reflects the circle that is the ride, but perhaps even more than that. The circle may represent the seasons or even life itself. Perhaps the observer can also find symbolism in a life half lived? Izis was 36 years old when the photograph was taken.

Your eyes are drawn to the intricate designs along the wrought iron fence that surrounds the merry go round. Does it keep something in or something out? Does it preserve the wonder and the magic the artist saw, or does it keep evil at bay? Izis's parents, two brothers, and sister were brutally murdered in Marijampolë just ten years before the original photograph was taken. This terrible loss was something he carried with him throughout his life, it had a tremendous impact in how he looked at the world and his photography reflects that. Even in this one, a subject matter that might otherwise reflect simple childhood fun, there is something about the silver grayness of the day that is haunting.

Although rare, Izis Jardin des Tuilleries (Merry Go Round) does appear in secondary markets from time to time. In the 1980's there was a limited run of poster/prints made and some of that which survived can occasionally be found in art auction houses and on ebay, selling in the neighborhood of $400-500. According to artnet.com, an original signed photograph would sell for $10,000-20,000. It has great appeal because of its desire to cross collectors, both art and carousel (Merry Go Round) markets.