What also interests me about Historic photographs is not just the subject matter but also the added paraphernalia. Whether its about whats going on around the edges of the images “out of frame” or items/props used in the making of an image.
Here we see a selection of books being used. Its often thought items were used to help people keep their hands still. If your hands are busy holding something you less likely to fidget. Also in some imagery its about possessions and wealth, and the depiction showing one as educated and learned. Either way, I find it of great interest, especially as I have a soft spot for old books.
