Window at Saks, Fifth Avenue, New York c. 1920 - 1935

Editor: This photograph, "Window at Saks, Fifth Avenue, New York," taken sometime between 1920 and 1935 by Clifton R. Adams, it has such a dreamlike quality with that soft sepia tone. The dress almost floats. What draws your eye when you look at it? Curator: Funny you should say that, because when I first saw this photograph, I imagined the soft glow of dawn caressing Fifth Avenue, revealing this artful tableau. It's a study in contrasts, isn't it? The geometry of the display versus the flowing fabric of the dress. Almost a dance between order and chaos. The lamp there almost suggests it has its own spotlight; I love how the display is not merely "selling you something". Does it feel… theatrical, almost? Editor: Definitely theatrical! It’s so meticulously staged. The photograph really makes it look that way too. Everything seems placed with purpose. But the dreamlike aspect I mentioned, it has that too, doesn't it? Curator: Absolutely. Think about what a shop window is, at heart. A stage for aspiration! Clifton R. Adams has captured a perfect little world, designed to whisper promises of elegance and transformation. Notice how he doesn't focus solely on the dress, but includes the props, each telling a bit of the silent story of aspiration and a good day ahead. And also, the angle is as if *we're* on stage and it's all *real.* Is it the future that will greet *us*? It speaks to that feeling that all this effort in presentation matters in life! The presentation of the *self*. I mean... look, there's a statuette of Mary. I love it! Is it ironic? Is it meant as a solemn reference? Editor: The Mary statue makes it even more curious. This photo seems to freeze a moment when commerce met something almost sacred, and even if you're not interested in shopping it kind of draws you in with those vibes. Curator: It does, doesn't it? It's like Adams captured not just a window display, but a whole mood. Thanks for pointing that out. A time capsule! Editor: And all that, in just one frame. Food for thought, indeed.