Zittende vrouw 1860 - 1890

This photograph, "Zittende vrouw," was created by Woodbury & Page, and is now held in the Rijksmuseum's collection. The sepia tones and sharp focus capture a seated woman, composed with geometric patterns in her clothing and a classical arrangement of shapes. These elements present an intriguing view of form and social context. The photograph's composition is carefully structured; the sitter's direct gaze engages the viewer, challenging traditional portrait conventions. The use of light and shadow enhances the texture of her garments, creating visual depth. The background, with its furniture and draped fabric, provides a setting that emphasizes the sitter's presence and perhaps hints at her social standing. The semiotic interplay of dress, pose, and setting invite multiple interpretations. The photograph does not simply represent a woman; it also communicates ideas about identity, representation, and cultural exchange, making it a complex document of its time.