Malo 1ere; Simon 2e; Ribet 1863

This photographic album page by André-Adolphe-Eugène Disdéri captures performers, perhaps dancers, in costume, dating back to 1863. The attire of these figures carries echoes of the Commedia dell'arte. The male figures, with their distinct caps and poised stances, evoke the roguish charm of characters like Harlequin. This archetype has roots stretching back to ancient Roman comedies, where tricksters and clowns played pivotal roles. Across time, such figures resurface in various guises. Consider, for instance, the enduring image of the fool or jester found in medieval courts. These figures serve not merely as entertainers, but as outlets for societal anxieties and repressed desires. The seemingly light-hearted gestures and playful costumes are imbued with a deeper psychological resonance. The image invites us to consider how archetypes evolve, reflecting and shaping our collective subconscious. It becomes a powerful force engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. We see the non-linear progression of symbols, and how they resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.