Portret van een vrouw 1880 - 1900

This photograph, "Portret van een vrouw," was created by Adrien Louvois sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. The sepia tone and oval frame give it a nostalgic feeling. The composition is simple yet effective. The woman’s figure, positioned slightly off-center, is framed within the oval, creating a contained and focused viewing experience. Louvois masterfully uses light and shadow to define her features, adding depth to the small format. Notice the woman's gaze—direct, almost confrontational, which challenges the traditional submissive portrayal of women in portraiture. Her attire, a modestly adorned dress, speaks to the socio-cultural context of the time. The small size of the photograph itself invites an intimate engagement. It is a personal artifact, hinting at broader cultural narratives around identity, representation, and the gaze.