Thomas Hicks (1823-1890) 1866 - 1871

Curator: Oh, this portrait just has that sepia-toned melancholy, doesn't it? Like a forgotten ballad. Editor: This is a photograph of Thomas Hicks, by Napoleon Sarony. Hicks was also an artist, active in the mid-19th century. Curator: That beard! It’s almost biblical, suggesting wisdom, perhaps even a touch of the hermit's solitude. Editor: Beards signified masculinity and a certain ruggedness during this period, especially in artistic circles. It was a deliberate performance. Curator: Perhaps, but look at those eyes—there's a softness there. He's more poet than prophet, I think. Editor: These portraits were about constructing identity, and it's crucial to remember that images, especially portraits, can be documents of power. Curator: Maybe. But there's also the quiet power of simply being seen, isn't there? Editor: Indeed, and it's our job to keep viewing, and questioning, what's been presented to us. Curator: To keep the ballad playing, but with our own harmonies.