Or maybe I've been reading too many J. Peterman catalogs. In any case, the proud mother gently but firmly suggests that you peruse all of the fascinating posts over at Sepia Saturday.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Proud Mother
I can't tell you the name of this mother and son, but I can tell you that the photo was taken at Applin's Studio, 18 Windsor Terrace, in Southampton. Although the mother is wearing an elegant velvet dress, the position of her left hand suggests to me that she is down-to-earth and without pretense. Is that a giant leap? Perhaps, but hands have a lot to tell. So do those soulful eyes. She's proud of her son, but stern in a warm and sheltering way. She recognizes nonsense immediately. You won't find her raising her voice, but you will know by her gaze that she has seen through your artifice and is gently but firmly inviting you to change your course. You would be fortunate to call her your friend or your mother.
Or maybe I've been reading too many J. Peterman catalogs. In any case, the proud mother gently but firmly suggests that you peruse all of the fascinating posts over at Sepia Saturday.
Or maybe I've been reading too many J. Peterman catalogs. In any case, the proud mother gently but firmly suggests that you peruse all of the fascinating posts over at Sepia Saturday.
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The boy seems to be wearing a uniform of some sort with what looks like puttees on his legs. I wonder if there is a military connection somewhere?
ReplyDeletewonderful photo!
ReplyDeleteIt being Southampton it makes you wonder whether there was a merchant navy connection.
ReplyDeleteInteresting observations! I also don't get the sense that the boy is the sort to get into mischief, coming across as calm and confident.
ReplyDelete"You raised me up..." on the balcony.
ReplyDelete"You elevated me."
Some primates walk on knuckles - what does THAT mean?
Dorin,
ReplyDeleteIt means they're down-to-earth too.
Lovely description; I think you have read her well. The uniform of the little boy is interesting. I wonder what the connection is.
ReplyDeleteIt's a mini-version of a typical military tunic of the WW1, and possibly pre-WW1, era. Actually, the design on the reverse of the PC is identical with others in my collection which are postmarked 1911 to 1917. I suspect his Dad was gone away on service abroad, and he dragged his mother off to the studio, to get a portrait to send to his Dad.
ReplyDeleteLovely postcard. Nice to see the sitters smiling for a change.
ReplyDeleteIt's tantalising this. A mixture of strength and sorrow and . . . a striking absence . . . where's the Dad?
ReplyDeleteLucy
What a great looking mother and son. Love your descriptions.
ReplyDeleteNancy
Ladies of the Grove
Another great story starter.
ReplyDeleteYes I recognized the uniform too. Definitely a c1915 photo for the departing father. Suitable for both Mother's Day, Father's Day, and Memorial/Remembrance Day.
ReplyDeleteI love your interpretation of this Mom's personality! This is a fantastic picture postcard ... thanks so much for sharing it with us this Mother's Day.
ReplyDeleteGod bless,
Kathy M.
Your analysis is very interesting. I never would have thought of all that.
ReplyDeleteGreat postcard, and great interpretation and comments too.
ReplyDeleteYour observations add interest to this striking photo card. There is a strong resemblance between mother and son.
ReplyDeleteThanks to Brett and Mike for the uniform info, it adds substantial meaning to the image.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great RPPC! I want her accessories. Sometimes, I'd like our fashion to go really retro.
ReplyDeleteDefinitely looks like a miniature WWI uniform on the hadsome little guy. I think you have the goods on that lovely lady and her personality.
ReplyDeleteVery interesting indeed. The mom is definitely in control of things. The young son seems content and appears to have a feeling of confidence and safety. What an interesting way you have of writing about the photo.
ReplyDeleteQMM
I totally agree with you! Often in those snap shots you didn't see signs of affection so much...that's why I really liked Alan's couple, with them holding hands! Great post!
ReplyDeleteIt is a neat photograph. I agree, she expresses down to earth living even though she did get all dressed in her finest.
ReplyDeleteI like Brett's interpretation, as well as QMM Peggy's comments.
ReplyDeleteBrilliant post today. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI agree with your description and I like Brett's idea about time, place, and reason for the photograph. If you were a papa in the military wouldn't you be pleased to have this photo of your wife and son?
ReplyDeleteIch mach das auch. Ich schau mir photos an, und stelle mir vor, wie die Leute wohl gewesend sind, und dann entstehen kleine Geschichten daraus.
ReplyDeleteWas für eine Uniform trägt der Junge?
Ist das von den Pfadfindern?
Vielleicht ist Mama so stolz, weil ihr Junge nun dort aufgenommen worden ist.
Ich wünsch dir eine schöne Woche
Janine