Untitled (full length portrait of two unidentified young children) 1895 - 1896

Editor: So, this is an untitled portrait by T. L. Wales, showing two young children. The sepia tones give it such a nostalgic feel. What do you make of the composition? Curator: It whispers of a bygone era, doesn't it? I wonder about the children's expressions. There's a gravity, a stillness... Do you sense a contrast between their outward presentation and perhaps an inner world? Editor: Definitely. They look so serious! Maybe a little scared? Curator: Perhaps. Or perhaps it’s just the formality of portraiture at the time. What do you think that backdrop is supposed to suggest? Editor: It looks like a classical column, so maybe it’s trying to imply status? Curator: Exactly! It’s a fascinating glimpse into how people wanted to be perceived back then. I think I would’ve hated posing for something like this as a kid. Editor: Absolutely. I'll never look at old photos the same way again.