In a Geneva museum, Hugh Nini and his spouse, Neal Treadwell, proudly stood before their amassed collection of photographs portraying men expressing love for one another. Among the group is a photo from the turn of the 20th century showcasing two men clutching a sign proclaiming, “Not married but willing to be.”
“It’s astounding to imagine what they might have been contemplating at that time,” expressed Nini, who, alongside Treadwell, has been curating photos of men in love for over twenty years.
The American pair unveiled their anthology “Loving” in 2020, a compilation of hundreds of candid shots and portraits portraying male love from the mid-19th to the mid-20th century. The identities of most men depicted, who are captured in intimate moments such as embracing, kissing, or reclining in bed, are unfortunately lost to history.
A selection from their collection is set to debut this Thursday at Musee Rath in Geneva, known for presenting the Musee d’Art et d’Histoire’s temporary exhibitions.
The hunt for these photographs took Nini and Treadwell from flea markets and family photo albums to online platforms and auctions.
“These photos were perhaps their way of preserving their memories,” said Treadwell, referring to the photographed subjects, many of whom served in the military.
“Many photographs were pristine, suggesting they were carefully concealed, perhaps within a book or drawer.”
Originating from when male partnerships were frequently deemed unlawful, the photos have roots in countries like the United States and Germany. Other than those shot in photo booths, the photographers remain anonymous.
“In this collection, we have unearthed the truth that, much like today, these men, these couples, were blessed with friends, allies, and family who stood by them,” shared Nini.
The collection’s exposure illuminates a hidden facet of history, presenting a touching testament to love in times of adversity. It highlights the universality of love and the enduring human spirit that transcends societal norms and legal constraints. The exhibit is a stirring reminder that, regardless of the period or societal pressures, love finds a way to express itself and that enduring support systems exist even in the most challenging times.
