I might be thinking too “simple” here, but:
>> What are they sitting on?”
Chairs. (Their asses?)
>> “Why is everything lined up?”
Because they were being directed where to sit/stand & HOW to sit/stand. A “Mirrored” image being portrayed of the 2 leaders (at the time).
>> “What does it signify?”
A game of Checkers (black/red)
A game of Chess: They are 2 pawns who have been positioned perfectly on the board markers (which is symbolized by the floral art on the carpeting and the Stormy Sea/Mountains/City Mural on the Wall behind them.
>> Mirrored body & chair positions could mean that they have struck some sort of deal, where both men are considered to have gotten a “fair” or equal trade and are “equals” or on the same levels/wavelengths (or positions of power…? …. or in regards to being in agreement?)
7 males, 1 female. Kind of like the main pieces in a chess game (excluding the pawns)