Untitled (guests at party, sitting) 1965

This black and white photograph, taken in 1965 by Robert Burian, captures a moment at a party. Observe the gesture of the crossed hands, prominent on the laps of two women in the foreground. This subtle yet pervasive gesture carries a rich history. Across millennia, from ancient Egyptian statuary to Renaissance portraiture, crossed hands have signified contemplation, closure, or a quiet reserve. Consider how this motif appears in funerary sculpture, symbolizing peaceful rest, or in royal portraits, conveying authority through restrained composure. In each instance, the gesture channels deep-seated emotions, engaging viewers on a visceral level. The recurrence of crossed hands reminds us of the non-linear progression of symbols. They resurface, evolve, and take on new nuances across time, all while echoing primordial feelings of tranquility and reflection.