Evaluating Alvin Langdon Coburn's photograph

'Vortograph' of Ezra Pound

Here we can see a distilled portrait photo in black & white of a man, likely in his 40's, dressed in fashionable working attire which was the norm during the period in which it was taken (1917). His face is overlapping with copies of different size which creates an illusion of relativity for the viewer, however, a key point to notice is the focus and attention demanded by his eyes, we, as viewers, are instantly locked onto them and it is because of their authority (further enhanced by his facial expression) that we feel somewhat obedient in this photos presence. The photo is in low contrast and more than likely taken indoors, it makes me feel dizzy and even secluded through its over lapping and stiffness. Having done some research into vortographs, this technique uses mirrors to create a sense of movement and dizzing angles, which can be clearly seen here. However, unlike some of Coburn's more abstract vortographs, this one does not create a kaleidoscopic effect.