Portret van Fenna Mastenbroek 1797 - 1836

Philippus Velijn created this portrait of Fenna Mastenbroek using an etching technique. Born in the late 18th century, Velijn operated in a world where social roles and identities were very defined. Looking at this work, I’m drawn to how Fenna is presented. Her traditional clothing speaks volumes about her identity and place within her community. The head covering, the patterned dress, these aren’t just clothes; they are markers of her cultural identity. Does this portrait reflect a simple representation or does it offer alternative narratives about gender and identity? Consider how Velijn, a man, might have perceived and portrayed Fenna, and how Fenna herself might have viewed her role in society. This etching serves not only as a historical record, but also invites us to reflect on the intricate interplay between identity, representation, and societal expectations.