Untitled (full length portrait of two girls, one standing, one reclining labeled Mary May and Florence Winsor, May 1876) 1876 - 1880

Editor: Here we see an untitled photograph by William Clark, taken in May of 1876. It's a portrait of two girls, and I immediately notice the formality and perhaps even the discomfort in their expressions. What can you tell me about the context of this image? Curator: This image is fascinating when considered in light of the photographic conventions of the time. Portraits were increasingly accessible, yet the stiff poses and formal attire reflect a desire to project a certain social standing. Do you think the studio setting contributes to the overall feeling? Editor: Absolutely, it feels staged and deliberate. It makes me wonder about the role of photography in shaping social perceptions and class distinctions during that era. Curator: Precisely! This image speaks volumes about the intersection of photography, social identity, and the public performance of self in the late 19th century. I wonder, how does thinking about this photo in that context affect your understanding of it? Editor: It really highlights the power of a seemingly simple portrait to reveal broader cultural narratives. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure! It’s a reminder of how even intimate portraits are shaped by larger socio-political forces.