The photograph titled “Untitled” is by the artist W. Eugene Smith, and the image appears to capture a crowd of individuals dressed in Ku Klux Klan (KKK) robes, including hoods that cover their faces, with only the eyes visible through the slits in the hoods. A central figure, presumably a leader, is pointing outwards, seemingly at the photographer, W. Eugene Smith himself. This photo is presented in black and white and gives a chilling visual insight into KKK gatherings.
In this particular photograph, the crowd’s gaze is drawn towards something out of the frame, possibly directed by the pointing figure, which creates a sense of tension and focus. The image likely dates back to the mid-20th century when the civil rights movement was prominent and the KKK was still a very much active hate group in the United States. This photo captures the stark reality of hate, racism, and the influence of such groups during that time.