Mathew Brady Photographing Lincoln 1975

Editor: Norman Rockwell’s 1975 painting, "Mathew Brady Photographing Lincoln", renders a historical moment. I'm struck by how posed everything looks. What is significant about framing this event in this way? Curator: It's interesting you noticed the 'posed' quality. Rockwell, known for his nostalgic Americana, is recreating a pivotal moment in visual culture - the creation of a political image. Consider how photography in the 19th century, especially portraiture, elevated figures like Lincoln. It was a calculated move, democratizing his image while simultaneously projecting power. This painting, made much later, engages with the mythology surrounding Lincoln, doesn't it? Editor: It really does. The almost staged scene suggests the construction of an image, which relates to power and celebrity even back then. How would this have played into Lincoln's political career? Curator: Mass media was on the rise, and photography offered a means to connect with voters on a personal level, crucial during the Civil War. Think about the costuming, the controlled setting - even the lighting would have been deliberately manipulated. It suggests a curated version of Lincoln the politician presented to the masses, and what that image meant at that time. Is there anything in the room's arrangement that you feel lends itself to this discussion? Editor: Now that you mention it, there is that series of portraits in the background and that bust that give the feel of a formal studio; plus, Lincoln himself is isolated in the scene. All are strategically important, emphasizing Lincoln’s authority. This highlights the performative aspect of leadership. Curator: Precisely. The painting then serves not just as a historical record, but as a commentary on the power of image-making itself. Editor: So it seems the painting operates on two levels: the historical and the meta-commentary about the role of images in politics. I've certainly gained a deeper appreciation for Rockwell's layered storytelling and the subtle cues within the image! Curator: And seeing how a contemporary artist reflects on history adds another layer to our understanding of Lincoln's legacy and its continued relevance.