Thomas Ustick Walter (1804-1887) c. 1857

Editor: Here we have a portrait of Thomas Ustick Walter by Mathew Brady. It's grand, formal. He's leaning on a column, which feels symbolic. What do you make of the composition? Curator: It's a study in power, isn't it? The column, his attire, the gaze… Brady was a master of capturing not just likeness, but presence. I wonder, though, is it Walter's power, or the power Brady bestows? Editor: I hadn't considered that. Curator: Photography in this era was still finding its voice. Was it simply a mirror, or a stage? Brady makes you ask that. And Walter seems happy to play along. Editor: Fascinating! I'll never look at portraits the same way again. Curator: Good, that’s the point. Let's keep looking!