Twee vlakken met dennentakken en dierenschedels before 1897

Curator: Today we’re looking at an intriguing photographic print titled “Twee vlakken met dennentakken en dierenschedels,” which translates to “Two Planes with Pine Branches and Animal Skulls." It’s dated before 1897 and created by an anonymous artist. Editor: Wow, okay. First impression? Definitely has this quiet, slightly eerie vibe. Skulls and pine branches – it’s a still life, but with a heavy dose of melancholy. Curator: Indeed. These pairings offer interesting layers to unpack. The juxtaposition of animal skulls with pine branches speaks volumes about the intertwined nature of life and death, decay and regeneration. It reminds me of memento mori traditions that encouraged reflection on mortality. Editor: Absolutely, you nailed it. It's like… nature reclaiming what was once animated. But also, there’s something unsettling in seeing these animal remains presented almost formally, you know? Did someone find poetry here or try to categorize death? It tickles my morbid side with wonder. Curator: Given that this was made before 1897, it's entirely possible that it engages with discourses surrounding natural history and classification. Collections were common during the 19th century; one could even hypothesize if it is referencing social and racial hierarchies using physiognomy or other emerging methods. Editor: Physiognomy! Okay, going there adds some darkness. And thinking about it, pine branches often symbolize immortality, resilience, but their inclusion also creates an opposition of decay vs life in an uncomfortable fashion, especially near the skulls. The photograph doesn't settle on a mood: one of celebration, remembrance or dread? It seems undecided, which is unsettling. Curator: I completely agree. And this piece's lack of attribution prompts consideration on why the photographer would like to remain anonymous. Editor: True! Which only enhances the mystery, the...spectral air hanging around these juxtaposed things. Well, I think next time I gather skulls and flora, I'll also be making my viewers uncomfortable! Just kidding...mostly. Curator: This definitely prompts discussions and questions around death, anonymity, history and representations in visual imagery, even to this day. Thank you.