Untitled (two photographs: studio portrait of bride and groom with groom sitting down; studio portrait of bride and groom with bride sitting and wearing pearl-lined veil) after 1900

Editor: This is a contact sheet of two wedding portraits by Martin Schweig. The contrast between the couples’ poses is striking. What visual symbols strike you in these images? Curator: The seated figure, particularly the groom, denotes power, a visual trope extending back centuries. The pearl-lined veil suggests purity and status. What emotions do these symbols evoke for you? Editor: I notice the starkness of the backdrop, and the fact that there are two images. What does that say? Curator: The backdrop serves as a stage, the two images perhaps indicating options, possibilities considered. Notice the careful arrangement of hands; consider what each gesture might communicate about partnership. Editor: The hand gestures are interesting. It all seems so deliberate. Curator: Yes, it is a performance of self. These visual choices show cultural values of the time. Editor: It is fascinating to see how much symbolism is packed into what seems like a simple photo. Curator: Indeed. Visual symbols continue to shape our perceptions today.