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Santa Watches Quadrille
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Santa Watches Quadrille
Two young couples dancing a quadrille, watched by Father Christmas
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4322155
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10024472
Couples Depictions Peeping Quadrille Unusual Voyeur Voyeurism Watches 1901 Santa
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photograph, titled "Santa Watches Quadrille," is an intriguing depiction of an unusual Christmas scene captured in 1901. The image features two young couples gracefully dancing a quadrille, a popular nineteenth-century dance for four people, in a grand ballroom. The historical setting is further emphasized by the elegant attire of the dancers and the ornate decor of the room. What makes this photograph particularly intriguing is the presence of Father Christmas, or Santa Claus, peeping in from the sidelines. He watches the dancers with a curious and delighted expression, as if he's relishing the joy and merriment of the season. The image invites us to ponder the role of Santa Claus in Christmas celebrations during this era, as well as the custom of quadrille dancing. The concept of Santa Claus as a jolly, bearded man in a red suit with a white beard and black boots became popular in the United States during the late 19th century. However, his origins can be traced back to Saint Nicholas, a fourth-century bishop from Myra in present-day Turkey. Over time, Santa Claus evolved into a symbol of Christmas cheer and gift-giving. The quadrille dance, which originated in the courts of France, gained popularity in the United States during the 19th century. The dance was typically performed by four couples, with each couple dancing together for a set number of figures before switching partners. The quadrille was an integral part of social gatherings and balls, and its popularity extended well into the early 20th century. This photograph, with its charming depiction of young love, Christmas traditions, and a hint of voyeurism, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. It invites us to reflect on the history of Christmas customs and the enduring appeal of the quadrille dance.
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