Portret van een onbekende vrouw, mogelijk Marie Kellerman 1847 - 1888

Bernardus Theodorus van Loo created this print of an unknown woman, possibly Marie Kellerman. The woman is depicted with careful detail; her gentle face is framed by a white bonnet and scarf, and she wears spectacles that suggest wisdom and experience. Consider how the image offers a glimpse into 19th-century Dutch society, where women's roles were often confined to the domestic sphere. The sitter's clothing and accessories speak to a certain level of social status, while her gaze carries a sense of self-possession. The inscription, though faded, tells us she was in charge of an Institute in Regol, reflecting her intellect and influence. In a time when women's contributions were often overlooked, this print serves as a testament to the quiet strength and resilience of women like Kellerman. It invites us to reflect on the stories of those who shaped history in subtle yet significant ways.