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It is easier to compose with odd-number elements since this lends itself better to a classical compositon scheme, i. e. central element as focal point and main protagonist balanced laterally by an equal number of elements.
It is very difficult to have a successful compositon with 2 elements, both of which are supposed to have equal protagonism. There are, of course, and have been exceptions wherein the compositions have worked out (Hans Holbein the Younger and his "Two Ambassadors" comes to mind).
I agree that the arm of the boy in the de Laszlo piece plays an important role; the spherical elements also fulfill their role; the shadows on the side serve to anchor the 2 figures to the base of the painting and almost give the whole thing a pyramidal compositional scheme, (perhaps because of this I personally find the painting a bit bottom heavy, but that
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