Fotoreproductie van een schilderij van een vrouw voor een spiegel door Alfred Stevens before 1900

This is a photographic reproduction, made around 1900 by Alexandre, of a painting by Alfred Stevens, and it raises questions about the relationship between the original artwork and its copies, as well as the social function of both. In late 19th century France, Stevens gained fame for his paintings of elegant women in domestic settings. These images catered to the tastes of the bourgeoisie and the aristocracy, who valued refined displays of wealth and leisure. The painting captures a woman looking in a mirror, surrounded by luxurious furniture and clothing. The image emphasizes the importance of appearance and social status in the lives of women of this era. This photogravure was published in an album documenting Stevens’s artistic output and these albums helped solidify an artist's reputation and market. Understanding its appeal requires archival research into the circulation of similar images through commercial galleries and publications.