Untitled (Santa Claus with a large group of children) 1944

Editor: This photograph, "Untitled (Santa Claus with a large group of children)" by John Deusing shows a large gathering around a Christmas tree. The image's monochrome palette and high contrast give it a stark, almost dreamlike quality. What can you tell me about the context of images like this? Curator: This image speaks to the institutionalization of Christmas traditions and the public role of Santa Claus. Consider the setting – is this a school, a church, or an orphanage? The photographer seems interested in portraying Santa as a figure welcomed by this group and their handlers, yes? Editor: Yes, it definitely feels like a carefully staged presentation. It makes me wonder about the power dynamics at play. Curator: Exactly. It prompts us to think about the social function of these kinds of imagery and their impact on popular culture. Editor: It’s interesting to consider how seemingly simple images like this can reflect so much about society. Curator: Precisely. It makes you wonder who commissioned this picture and why.