Group of red kangaroos before 1886

J. Fortuné Nott's photograph, "Group of red kangaroos," captures these animals within what seems to be an enclosure. The photograph creates meaning through its depiction of kangaroos. The kangaroos are confined within an enclosure, raising questions about the ethics of keeping wild animals in captivity for display. The photograph also reflects the historical context of scientific exploration and the collection of exotic species for study and exhibition during that time. In this context, the photograph may comment on the social structures of its time, particularly the relationship between humans and the natural world. Understanding art requires historical research into exhibition records, scientific publications, and the history of zoological institutions to fully contextualize the work. The meaning of art is contingent on its social and institutional setting.