The Curious Case of “Prunes”: A Victorian Photography Quirk
In the age of digital photography, the common curatorial phrase “say cheese” rolls off the tongue without a second thought. However, this friendly command to smile has roots that stretch back through the landscape of photography history. Interestingly, the Victorians had their own playful take on this phenomenon, instructing those posed for photos to say “prunes.” This quirky phrase, delightful in its peculiarity, reflects both the social customs of the period and the cultural fascination with photography that emerged in the 19th century.
In the Victorian era, the advent of photography was revolutionary. The introduction of more accessible photographic processes changed the way people captured and preserved moments in time. Unlike painting or drawing, photography offered a new, tangible representation of reality that was both immediate and lasting. Victorians were enthralled not only by the potential of this new art form but also by the social implications it brought. This newfound ability to document oneself and one’s family underscored the era’s emphasis on social status and lineage.
The phrase “say prunes” likely has its roots in the Victorian preoccupation with etiquette and appearances, as it elicits a particular mouth shape that plays into expectations of a natural smile. When one pronounces the word “prunes,” it produces a slight pursing of the lips, leading to a somewhat subdued, more controlled smile than “cheese,” which prompts a wider, toothy grin. This subtle distinction aligns with the Victorian values of propriety and decorum. For the Victorians, controlled expressions were not only fashionable but also deemed more dignified, especially in formal portraits, which were frequently painted or taken in studios.
The Victorian photography studio often served as a sacred space where societal roles were encapsulated within a frame. Families would dress in their finest attire, and the occasion of being photographed was perceived as a significant event. Saying “prunes” reinforced the ritualistic nature of these photographs. It was less about spontaneity and more about creating a composed appearance that would be proudly displayed in family albums and on mantlepieces.
Moreover, the expression reflected the broader culture of the time. The Victorian era was marked by strict social norms and expectations. Photography was an art form entwined with these societal rules, and the choices people made regarding how they posed or what they expressed were often reflective of their status and aspirations. The command to say “prunes” serves as a playful reminder of those bygone times, evoking an image of Victorian families posing with an air of sophistication, all the while adhering to the rules of engagement in public life.
As we look back at Victorian photography and the amusing phrase “say prunes,” we are offered a glimpse into the traditions and values that shaped a society transitioning into modernity. Today, we may scoff at the notion of saying “prunes” in front of a camera, but understanding this historical context allows us to appreciate how far we have come in embracing both self-expression and the art of the photograph. In essence, this peculiar quirk of the Victorian era beautifully exemplifies a time when the interplay between art, society, and technology was beginning to unfold—a playful moment forever captured in the annals of photography history.
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