[Grenadier Guards Drummer] 1854 - 1856

Curator: Immediately, I'm struck by the somber mood. The tones are muted, almost sepia-like, lending a gravity to the subject, a young drummer. He looks almost swallowed by that immense bearskin hat! Editor: This captivating portrait, simply titled '[Grenadier Guards Drummer]', was captured sometime between 1854 and 1856, possibly by Joseph Cundall. It’s a gelatin-silver print, which explains the remarkable tonal range. This photograph resides here at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Curator: Remarkable indeed! The lighting feels almost painted, highlighting the intricate details of the uniform while keeping his face softly shadowed. He looks so young to be carrying such weighty responsibilities. Do we know his story? Editor: Unfortunately, the individual's identity has been lost to time. What interests me is the broader historical context. Consider the Crimean War, raging during these years. Photography was emerging as a documentary tool. Yet, this image, with its composed formality, seems to participate more in constructing an ideal. Think of it as Romantic heroism captured by a lens rather than brush. Curator: An ideal perhaps, but look closer. There’s a fragility in his gaze, a hint of unease. Maybe it is a quiet commentary, subtly undermining that very heroism you speak of? A question mark in photographic form. I'm certain if his expression would be just a bit different, we'd see him as simply overwhelmed and lost. Editor: Or maybe just an awareness of the camera’s intimidating gaze! Either way, you are right that it certainly encourages you to ask questions about this young drummer, both regarding what is visible, such as his ornamented uniform and drum, and regarding that which cannot be accessed, namely his own sentiments. The rise of the military image as political strategy cannot be discarded, no matter what expression may or may not be concealed beneath the Grenadier Guards drummer's giant bearskin. Curator: Such is the power of portraiture, isn't it? A fleeting moment imbued with timeless resonance. Editor: Precisely, offering endless room for both scrutiny and reflection.