Portret van een onbekende zittende vrouw met een dichtgevouwen parasol in haar hand 1890 - 1910

This is a photograph of an unknown woman, captured by Mme. Koch. It presents us with an intriguing glimpse into the gendered world of photography and portraiture. The woman's identity remains a mystery, but her attire and the presence of a parasol speak volumes about the era's social expectations. Her dress, with its high neckline and long sleeves, reflects the modesty expected of women at the time. The parasol, often a symbol of gentility, also alludes to the protection women needed in a society where their roles were narrowly defined. The inclusion of Mme. Koch's name at the bottom of the photograph is a testament to her agency as a woman working in the medium. The emotional depth of the portrait lies in the woman's gaze. There's a sense of quiet contemplation, perhaps a yearning for a space beyond the confines of societal expectations. In that gaze, we find a connection that transcends time, inviting us to reflect on the enduring complexities of gender and identity.