Untitled (a snake charmer or sapera) c. 1860 - 1880

Editor: This photograph by Willoughby Wallace Hooper, simply titled "Untitled (a snake charmer or sapera)," really captures a moment in time. I’m struck by the contrast between the man's weathered face and the smooth curves of the gourd instrument. What stands out to you in this image? Curator: For me, it's about the labor and materials involved. Look at the woven baskets; consider the time and skill required to make them. Think about the photographer’s process, the chemicals, the light, and the social context allowing him to capture this scene. It speaks volumes about cultural exchange and the commodification of performance. Editor: So, you're seeing beyond the immediate subject to the means of its creation and its place in a larger system? Curator: Precisely. By examining the materiality and the processes at play, we challenge the traditional art historical focus solely on aesthetics. Editor: That’s given me a whole new perspective on how to approach photography. Thanks!