Untitled (man in suit seated in wooden chair, holding reading material) c. 1940

This photograph by Paul Gittings presents us with an intriguing image of a man in a suit, seated and holding reading material. The lack of a specific date invites us to consider the broader context of portraiture and its social functions. Throughout history, portraits have often served as markers of status and power, commissioned by individuals seeking to project a particular image of themselves. Here, the man's formal attire and seated pose suggest a degree of authority and respectability. But the photograph, with its stark contrast and somewhat unsettling quality, challenges any easy interpretation. Gittings was known as a society photographer who had studios in multiple cities. Understanding the context of Gittings' work, and the conventions of portraiture in his time, requires delving into archives, studio records, and perhaps even the personal papers of his sitters. This is a photograph that reminds us of the complex interplay between art, identity, and social context.