Portret van een onbekende jonge vrouw 1890 - 1905

This is a portrait of an unknown young woman by Jan Goedeljee. It's a small photograph encased in glass. Reflect on the era of its creation, a time of burgeoning photography, where portraiture became newly accessible, yet remained steeped in the conventions of class and gender. The woman’s attire, from the high-necked blouse to the elaborate bow in her hair, speaks to the restrictive expectations placed on women. Yet, there's also a sense of individuality in her gaze, a quiet assertion of self. Consider how the act of capturing one's likeness was a significant event, often laden with aspirations of upward mobility. Goedeljee, through his lens, not only documented her physical appearance but also her place within the societal framework. While the woman's identity remains a mystery, the photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the countless untold stories embedded in the past.