Portret van een jonge vrouw met lint om de hals 1880 - 1905

This photograph, by Berend Mulder, captures a young woman adorned with a ribbon around her neck. This ribbon, seemingly simple, echoes through history. The ribbon or choker, a delicate band encircling the throat, has appeared in various forms across different eras. From simple adornments to symbols of status or even constraint, the significance of this motif evolves. Consider the collars of ancient Egypt, symbols of power and divinity, or even the ruffled collars of the Renaissance, each a statement of identity. The choker can also be seen in darker contexts, sometimes hinting at vulnerability. The image of a ribbon around the neck evokes both beauty and a latent unease, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. This juxtaposition captures our attention, stirring a deep, almost primal response. These symbols remind us that history is not linear but cyclical. The ribbon, like many cultural symbols, resurfaces, evolves, and takes on new meanings in each era, reflecting and shaping the collective psyche.