[George Gordon (?)] 1843 - 1847

This calotype, made by Hill and Adamson in the 1840s, shows a man, perhaps George Gordon, in a moment of deep contemplation. Look at the papers in his hands, symbols of communication, knowledge, and perhaps, in this case, weighty burdens. The gesture of resting his head in his hand is a motif that echoes through centuries. Consider Rodin's 'Thinker' or even depictions of Melancholia, a symbol of intellectual and existential despair. The weight of thought, of the world's complexities, presses down upon the individual. Here, the papers he holds might represent decisions, memories, or responsibilities, each contributing to his melancholic pose. This pose, reminiscent of ancient sculptures depicting grieving figures, reminds us of the shared human experience of sorrow. It's a symbol that resurfaces throughout art history, reflecting our ongoing struggle with mortality and the search for meaning. Such images tap into our collective memory, engaging us on a profound, subconscious level.