Past Exhibition

Imaging Conflict: photographs from the revolutionary era Ireland 1913 – 1923

12 April - 31 July 2024


Curated by The National Museum of Ireland’s Curator of Military History, Brenda Malone, and Librarian and Photo Historian, Dr Orla Fitzpatrick

Imaging Conflict: Photographs From The Revolutionary Era Ireland 1913 – 1923
In Our Own Image programme: Chapter 5

National Museum of Ireland Decorative Arts & History at Collins Barracks from 14th October, 2022 until 2024.

A collaboration with the National Museum of Ireland, this exhibition is part of the Museum’s contribution to the Decade of Centenaries commemorations and is part of In Our Own Image – photography and Ireland 1839-now, a year-long centenary programme surveying the role of photography in recording, representing and shaping Irish cultural identities.

Imaging Conflict will display 150 images and five original photograph books from the National Museum of Ireland’s collection relating to the Irish revolutionary era of 1913 – 1923, as well as images of Irish men and women in conflicts overseas. The majority of these images have not been on display to the public before.

In this period, photography became more accessible due to advances in technology meaning that this became the first Irish revolution in which members of the public played such a key role documenting. Consequently, the varied formats – eyewitness snapshots, memorial cards, post-mortem photography, press photographs and staged battle scenes – provide a nuanced perspective of the period.

Imaging Conflict will also examine the production and consumption of photographic images in conflict situations and how they can be used as propaganda.

Photography by local citizens
Imaging Conflict explores how technical advances in photography have transformed the way we view conflict and consume information. This image was taken by a member of the public during the exhumation and re-internment of individuals who were executed by the State between 1922 – 1923

“One of the key objectives of the Decade of Centenaries commemorations is to promote a greater understanding of this period of our history, and how it gave rise to very different narratives and memories. This new exhibition provides a valuable insight because it’s made up of everyday images, many of them captured by members of the public.”
— Minister Catherine Martin TD

A black and white photograph showing a man in a military uniform, likely from the early 20th century, standing on steps in front of a building. He has a mustache and is holding a small dog, which he cradles in his arms. The man appears relaxed, looking directly at the camera with a slight smile. The background includes stone pillars and steps, giving the setting a formal or official look. The photograph is framed with a white border and layered with brown and black matting, adding a classic touch.
A grainy black and white photograph depicting two men in a military setting. The focus is on a soldier in uniform wearing a beret, standing in the background near a simple, wooden building. He appears to be holding something, possibly smoking or examining an object with his hand near his mouth. In the foreground, blurred and partially out of focus, is another person in a dark coat or jacket, seemingly observing or waiting. The overall mood of the image is candid and informal, capturing a moment of quiet or contemplation. The background buildings suggest a camp or temporary military quarters.
A vintage black and white portrait photograph of a young man in a military-style uniform, possibly from the early 20th century. He has a serious yet soft expression and wears a double-breasted jacket with metal buttons and a decorative cord looped around his neck and chest, fastened in a simple knot. His hair is thick, wavy, and neatly styled, adding a touch of youthfulness to his formal appearance. The photograph has a slightly worn, textured surface, giving it a timeless, historical feel.
A historic black and white photograph capturing a large, somber funeral procession on a rainy day. The crowd, many holding umbrellas, fills the frame, creating a dense sea of mourners gathered to pay their respects. In the center, ornate horse-drawn hearses, adorned with decorative details and led by drivers in formal attire, proceed slowly through the crowd. The misty background and bare trees add to the somber atmosphere, highlighting the significance and public nature of the event. The overcast weather, with people huddling under umbrellas, emphasizes the heavy, mournful mood of the scene.
A vintage black and white portrait of a young woman dressed in a traditional or ceremonial outfit. She wears a light-colored, ankle-length dress with delicate embroidery and a high waist, accessorized with a tasseled cord hanging from her waist. Draped over her shoulders is a dark cape with an embroidered edge, adding a sense of formality or cultural significance to her appearance. She also wears a head covering or bonnet that frames her face. Her pose is confident, with one hand on her hip, and she gazes directly at the camera. The backdrop is simple, giving the image a timeless, dignified feel.
A vintage black and white portrait of a young boy dressed in a traditional Scottish-style uniform, including a kilt and a tam o' shanter hat with a distinctive badge. He stands confidently, hands at his sides, with one hand resting near a leather belt that secures his outfit. The boy wears a long-sleeved top adorned with medals or insignia, possibly indicating a ceremonial or military connection. His expression is composed, giving a sense of formality despite his youth. The photograph has visible creases and wear, adding a sense of age and historical depth to the image.
A historic black and white photograph depicting a long line of women marching solemnly down a street, dressed in dark coats, hats, and gloves, reflecting a somber or formal event. Many of the women wear serious expressions, and their attire suggests the early 20th century. Toward the back of the line, a large sign is held up that reads, "THEY MURDER THE INNOCENT IN VENGEANCE," hinting at a protest or demonstration. The scene is set against a city street, with buildings and lamp posts visible in the background, emphasizing the organized and determined nature of the march.
A black and white photograph of a solemn funeral or memorial service, likely set indoors. Rows of coffins, draped with cloth and adorned with flowers, are arranged on either side, leading toward an altar at the back of the room. Each coffin has a small sign, possibly indicating names or details of the deceased. At the altar, a large cross is prominently displayed, surrounded by floral arrangements and candles. A single man, dressed in a coat and hat, stands at the center of the scene, looking directly at the camera. The dim lighting and dark drapes add a somber and respectful atmosphere to the setting.
A vintage black and white photograph titled "Eden Quay," showing the aftermath of destruction in an urban area. The scene features several people standing on cobblestone streets, gazing at the ruins of buildings that have been heavily damaged, possibly by fire or bombardment. The structures are partially collapsed, with rubble scattered around and skeletal remains of walls and chimneys visible against the sky. Passersby, including women in dark coats and hats, appear to be observing the damage with solemn interest. A bicycle is seen on the right side, adding a touch of normalcy amidst the devastation. The photo captures a moment of stillness in the wake of a significant event, preserving a sense of resilience and curiosity among the onlookers.
A historic black and white photograph labeled "Exhibit 28," showing a tense interaction between a military officer and a civilian in Dublin. The military officer, wearing a helmet and uniform, holds the civilian by his coat, inspecting or questioning him closely. The civilian, dressed in a trench coat and hat, appears defiant or defensive. In the background, another soldier stands guard, holding a weapon and watching the scene. The background includes signage and possibly storefronts, indicating an urban setting. The scene captures a moment of conflict or inspection during a time of military presence, with onlookers observing the exchange.

“Every day life during the War of Independence in Ireland”
Explore images of daily life taken by citizens living through one of the most pivotal periods in Irish history, at our collaborative exhibition ‘Imaging Conflict: photography from revolutionary era Ireland 1913 – 1923’ at the National Museum of Ireland.

“We are delighted to partner with the National Museum of Ireland on this exhibition. It brings together ‘official’ perspectives with images by citizen photographers to reflect on the pivotal role photography plays in shaping our understanding of history as it unfolds.”
— Trish Lambe, Director, Photo Museum Ireland

“It’s fortunate for us that this extraordinary period of our history coincided with the advance of photographic equipment. Seeing the period through the eyes of ordinary people captures the imagination in a special way. The exhibition also explores how images are used in periods of conflict to manipulate public opinion, something which is as relevant in war time today as it was 100 years ago.”
— Lynn Scarff, Director, National Museum of Ireland

The National Museum of Ireland’s Curator of Military History, Brenda Malone, and Librarian and Photo Historian, Dr Orla Fitzpatrick, are the co-curators of the exhibition.

Imaging Conflict will run at the National Museum of Ireland Decorative Arts & History at Collins Barracks rom 14th October, 2022 until 2024. Admission is free.

Online Education Resources
WORKSHEET - HOW TO READ AN IMAGE
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