In the early days of photography, the most profound captured taboo was death. Middle-class families would pose their deceased children — eyes painted open, cheeks rouged, propped on velvet sofas — for a single, costly daguerreotype. Today, we find this morbid. Then, it was a sacred act of preservation.
But other taboos age into archaeology. The erotic frescoes of Pompeii, buried in ash for 1,900 years, are now displayed in museums. The captured taboo of Roman orgies is now a lesson in cultural relativity. What horrified the 18th century delights the 21st. Captured Taboos
Taboos have been a part of human culture since ancient times. In many societies, taboos were established to maintain social order, ensure the well-being of community members, and protect individuals from harm. For example, in some cultures, it was considered taboo to eat certain foods, such as pork in Islamic or Jewish communities, due to religious or spiritual reasons. In other societies, taboos were used to regulate social interactions, such as the prohibition on incest or adultery. In the early days of photography, the most
Discussing subjects that cause immediate, palpable discomfort. Then, it was a sacred act of preservation
Revealing acts that society insists happen behind closed doors.