Untitled (family group, all sitters unidentified, woman standing, hand on seated man's shoulder, man with small child on lap) 1866 - 1900

Editor: This is an untitled family portrait, likely from the late 19th century, by Gillmore. It's a cabinet card, a very intimate glimpse into a family. What stories do you think it tells about family and representation? Curator: This image, typical of studio portraits of the era, reflects the rising middle class and their desire to assert social standing. The formal attire, the studio backdrop - these were deliberate choices shaping how they wished to be perceived publicly. Editor: So, it's less about capturing reality and more about constructing an image of success? Curator: Precisely. Photography became a tool for social mobility, documenting and performing aspirations. Consider how the woman's posture, hand on the man's shoulder, subtly reinforces traditional gender roles while hinting at her support. These nuances offer a rich field for interpretation. Editor: That’s fascinating, I hadn’t considered the performative aspect so deeply. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure, it is really about looking beyond the surface of these types of images.