Portret van een onbekende man 1882 - 1895

Willem Carel Heijenberg made this portrait of an unknown man in the Netherlands using photography in the 19th century. Photography in the 19th century was a rapidly developing technology that transformed portraiture. The rise of commercial photography studios made portraiture accessible to a wider range of social classes, not just the wealthy elite. The man’s clothing and demeanor reflect the fashion and social norms of the time. His formal attire, complete with a bow tie and pocket watch, indicate a certain level of respectability and social standing. It is interesting to note that this photo was taken in Utrecht, where the influence of the church was very strong. The man in the portrait doesn't wear any religious items and is smartly dressed. We might consider this to be a progressive statement. Historians of photography use studio records, newspapers, and other period documents to understand the social and economic context that shaped photographic practices and consumption. By studying these sources, we can gain insight into the lives and identities of the people who commissioned and appeared in these portraits.