Portret van de schilder Victor Lagye, halffiguur 1861

Joseph Dupont created this half-figure portrait of the painter Victor Lagye using photography during the 19th century. In this subdued image, Lagye sits with his arms crossed, gazing confidently to the side, a posture that conveys a sense of self-assuredness. During this time, portraiture served not only as a record but also as a statement of social standing and personal identity. The rise of photography democratized image-making, yet the conventions of portraiture, largely shaped by painting traditions, continued to reinforce notions of masculinity and class. Lagye’s pose, his beard, and his attire all contribute to an image of bourgeois respectability. Dupont’s photograph captures not just the likeness of an individual but also reflects the complex interplay between art, identity, and social status in 19th-century society. It invites us to reflect on how we represent ourselves and others.