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SOCIAL / UK / ARIST / 1890
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
SOCIAL / UK / ARIST / 1890
A gentleman faces a difficult decision - should he dance with the mother or the daughter
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4318752
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10020908
Decorations Dilemma Mistletoe Pleasure Politeness
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EDITORS COMMENTS
A Gentleman's Dilemma: Tradition and Modernity Collide at a Victorian Christmas Ball, 1890 This evocative photograph, titled "A Gentleman faces a difficult decision - should he dance with the mother or the daughter?" transports us back to the festive season of 1890, capturing a moment of polite tension and intrigue at a grand Victorian ball. The image, from the extensive archive of Mary Evans Prints Online, offers a fascinating glimpse into the complex social dynamics of the time. The scene is set with the opulence of the holiday season on full display. The room is adorned with lush greenery, including a prominent mistletoe branch, symbolizing the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe during the festive period. The air is thick with the scent of pine and the sound of lively music. Yet, amidst the merriment, our gentleman finds himself in a predicament. Standing before him are two enchanting women: his elegant and youthful daughter, and her mother, a graceful matriarch. Both women extend inviting glances and outstretched hands, their expectant eyes locked on the gentleman, who hesitates, torn between the demands of tradition and the allure of modernity. The decision he must make is not just a matter of personal preference, but a reflection of the societal norms of the time. Dancing with one's mother was a sign of respect and adherence to tradition, while dancing with one's daughter was a symbol of modernity and the changing roles of women in society. This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate social customs and the delicate balance between tradition and modernity that once defined the Victorian era. It invites us to ponder the choices we make and the societal expectations that shape our decisions, even as we celebrate the joy and merriment of the holiday season.
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