Costumes of Michaelenses, Azores, Portugal (barefoot man wearing hat, standing, holding long wooden pole, jacket draped over left shoulder c. 1880s

Curator: Here we have A.J. Rapozo's "Costumes of Michaelenses, Azores, Portugal" showing a man with a hat and carrying a long pole. Editor: The first word that comes to mind is "sturdy." There's something about his stance, that worn pole, the simplicity of his attire. It speaks to a life lived close to the earth. Curator: This is a fascinating glimpse into the material culture of the Azores. The pole, the hat—likely made from local materials—are functional objects reflecting available resources and typical labor. Editor: Indeed. His bare feet also suggest a certain practicality, a direct connection with the land. It makes me think about the weight of tradition, the stories embedded in everyday objects. Curator: And the jacket draped over his shoulder indicates a sensitivity to climate and the need for protection. These details offer insights into the work and social structures of the time. Editor: I find myself wondering about the man's story, his daily life. What did he use that pole for? What songs did he sing? There's a whole world contained within this single image. Curator: A world of material realities shaping identity and community. Editor: And a world that sparks the imagination, reminding us of the beauty in simplicity.