Vrijmetselaarsritueel: mannen kruisen zwaarden boven hoofd andere man 1855 - 1864

This photograph by Alfred Silvester shows a Masonic ritual. In the 19th century, photography was a relatively new technology, used here to capture and disseminate images of social practices. The sepia tones and stereoscopic format give the image a distinctive look, but it's the content that's most revealing. The swords, ceremonial garb, and symbolic arrangement are all carefully posed, and staged. The photograph isn't just a neutral record; it's a constructed image intended to convey power and mystery. Consider the labor involved: not just the photographer's skill, but the time and effort required to stage this scene, including carpentry and costumes. The image underscores how exclusive societies used symbols and rituals to create a sense of belonging and status, reflected in the labor and materials used in their displays. It prompts us to think about who is included and excluded from such groups, and what that means in terms of social capital.