Untitled (three men at party) 1965

This photograph by Robert Burian captures three men in tuxedos at a party. The attire itself is a potent symbol of social status, an echo of aristocratic traditions transformed for the modern age. Observe the way these men present themselves. Such gestures are not new; in fact, they've been passed down from antiquity. Consider how the Roman orators would present themselves in their togas, a display of power and honor. The clothing and posture, however, do not determine one’s character; they mask it. They are inherited costumes that offer a glimpse into our social performance. The smile, for instance, a universal sign of acceptance, in certain contexts could signify deception. The image captures a particular moment, but it also evokes broader themes of identity, social ritual, and the subtle ways in which we perform for one another.