Portrait of the Waitress

I came across this compelling photograph of a server, “The Waitress,” in an exhibit of August Sander’s work at the Getty Museum.

Sanders is known for his portraits of pre-war Germans from all walks of life. He was interested in the various occupations that made his homeland of Westerwald function on a day-to-day basis. He photographed butchers, union organizers, dock workers, chimney sweeps, doctors, and many peasants from the rural areas.

In this photo, servers will see themselves, even though this anonymous woman is long removed from this world. The instinctive smile once the attention of a possible customer is recognized. The black sweater that matches the waitress’ garb, but keeps the chill away. The dark, loose-fitting dress that enables ease of movement and hides food stains. The tool of the trade that the public identifies with the server, a tray holding a cup.

Is she getting ready for her shift or just coming off of it? One can’t imagine that she would cheerfully don her work clothes while off duty, no matter how friendly the request of the photographer, Are those heels comfortable? She seems to be holding that tray effortlessly, signaling strength in her wrist. She’s young. She likely hasn’t had time to develop the hand and wrist muscle strain that plagues older waiters and waitresses. She looks tired. But she looks like she still likes her  job.