Portret van een onbekende vrouw 1867 - 1928

This is Hendrik Johannes Haverman’s “Portret van een onbekende vrouw,” made as an etching. The late 19th century saw significant shifts in the representation of women. While traditional portraits often idealized women to fit societal expectations, Haverman captures a more natural and introspective image. Consider the impact of the women's suffrage movement at this time. This unknown woman’s gaze is directed away, as if lost in thought, inviting viewers to ponder her inner life. Her simple hairstyle and modest attire diverge from the elaborate fashions often depicted in portraits of the era. The artist avoids typical conventions, focusing on the individual's character rather than their social status. Haverman invites us to consider the experiences and identities of women beyond the constraints of social expectations. The sensitive rendering of her expression evokes a sense of quiet dignity and resilience, reflecting the changing roles and perceptions of women in society.