Untitled (Moore family portrait in front of Christmas tree) c. 1940

Editor: This is an intriguing photograph by C. Bennette Moore titled "Untitled (Moore family portrait in front of Christmas tree)." It's a modest-sized gelatin silver print. The negative tonality creates an eerie feel. What's your take on this family portrait? Curator: The photograph's power lies in its formal arrangement. Note the rigid symmetry of the figures, offset by the organic form of the Christmas tree. The tonal inversion disrupts conventional portraiture, drawing attention to the stark contrasts and textures. Observe how the light plays across the subjects' faces, almost sculpting them. Do you find this manipulation effective? Editor: I do. It makes me think about the reversal of memory, and how time changes our perspective. Thanks for your insights. Curator: Indeed, the formal qualities encourage a deeper reading beyond the surface.