Onbekende man en een meisje op een paardenkoets c. 1890 - 1910

This photograph of an unknown man and girl in a horse-drawn carriage was captured by Gebr. Richter. The figures and scene evoke questions about class and gender roles in the late 19th or early 20th century. The girl, possibly on the cusp of womanhood, is holding the reins of the horses. Consider the traditional representation of women and girls during this period versus her active role in guiding the horses. The girl is taking on a traditionally masculine role. In contrast, the man stands beside the carriage, seemingly an observer or protector, embodying a conventional posture of masculine authority. What does it mean for a young woman to hold the reins, both literally and metaphorically? What emotional experience might this have represented for the girl? The image hints at evolving societal norms, captured in a still moment of everyday life.