Portret van een zittende vrouw in noppen japon 1865 - 1880

This is Wegner & Mottu’s photographic portrait of a seated woman in a polka dot dress. The image captures a moment in the life of a woman, likely from the middle classes, in an era defined by strict social codes and gender roles. Her attire speaks volumes - the elaborate dress, while fashionable, also suggests the constraints placed upon women of the time, who were often judged by their appearance and adherence to social norms. Consider the weight of societal expectations, the limited opportunities for women in the professional sphere, and the emphasis on domesticity and motherhood. Yet, in her gaze, we see a hint of individuality, a sense of self that transcends the confines of her social role. How might she have navigated the complexities of her time, balancing personal desires with societal expectations? The photograph invites us to reflect on the lives of women in the past. It subtly captures their strength, resilience, and individuality within the constraints of their era.