One of the stops on Hartmann’s journey through Dublin was the Guinness Brewery where he shot a number of photographs that offer a behind-the scenes look at it. In this particular work, a trail of beer barrels draws the viewer into the interior of the brewery and directs their gaze to a number of staff who are enjoying a pint and conversation with their colleagues while on a break. As in many other photographs by Hartmann, there is a vivid contrast between light and shadow in this work. Stark artificial light pervades the scene and is reflected in the damp floor and steel surfaces of the casks. In addition, in keeping with his photographic style, Hartmann situates the viewer in the space of those he photographs so that they are part of the action rather than a mere voyeur.
on verso, upper left: Eire
on verso (Wet stamp): Magnum Photo, New York
on verso (sticker): Magnum Photo, London
on verso (stamp): Copyright Erich Hartmann / Magnum