Untitled (Moore family portrait in front of painted portrait) c. 1935

Curator: This is an untitled photograph by C. Bennette Moore, showing the Moore family in front of a painted portrait. It's a silver gelatin print, measuring about 4 by 5 inches. Editor: What strikes me is the layering of images; the family portrait in front of the painted portrait creates a complex visual plane. There's a sense of formality mixed with an intimate glimpse into their lives. Curator: Absolutely. Moore's work often explores themes of identity and representation within the Black community. This image speaks to the performance of self, and how families wanted to be seen. Editor: I see that. The composition is deliberately arranged; note the symmetry and the subtle variations in pose. It's a careful construction of a family narrative. Curator: And the use of portraiture within a portrait allows for conversations around visibility, access, and the ways in which Black families chose to represent themselves against mainstream stereotypes. Editor: It's a study in contrasts, really. The rigidity of the painted portrait versus the lived reality of the family, all captured through the lens. Curator: Indeed. This image highlights the power of photography as a tool for self-definition and cultural preservation. Editor: A fascinating glimpse into history, beautifully composed.