Portret van een jonge vrouw c. 1890 - 1910

Franz Eiffert made this portrait of a young woman in the Netherlands, likely at the turn of the 20th century. The image itself is small, part of a larger album, reflecting the growing popularity of photography as a means of personal documentation. The woman's attire - a high-necked blouse and wide-brimmed hat - speaks to the fashion of the time, but also to the constraints placed on women's appearance by societal norms. Was this a professional portrait, commissioned for family or social purposes? Or a more personal image, capturing a fleeting moment of self-expression? Understanding the social context of photography in the Netherlands at this time can help us to interpret the image more fully. Researching the history of photographic studios, fashion trends, and social customs of the time can provide valuable insights into the life of this young woman and the world she inhabited. It allows us to consider the public role of photography at the time.