The baker lifts a fresh round loaf from the tray, using striped mitts to support its weight. A blue cotton apron with fine white lines protects his cream shirt, and a little flour marks the working surfaces around him. The browned crust and light steam make the bread the clear focus of the task.

A brick oven adds a warm glow on one side of the narrow room. Steel counters and wooden cooling racks lead toward a tall window, where the deserted street is still blue before sunrise. The ordinary tools, textured crust and mixed light create a quiet working scene at the beginning of the day.