Portret van Adeh, Ida en Kitty van Braam 1880 - 1900

Carel Eduard Westerborg created this photograph of Adeh, Ida, and Kitty van Braam. It’s a poignant artifact of its time that raises questions about the performance of identity. In the 19th century, photography was becoming more accessible, yet portraiture remained a carefully constructed presentation of social standing. These children, adorned in matching outfits and hats, embody the era’s emphasis on uniformity and propriety. Yet, there’s a tension in their gazes, a hint of individuality that resists the rigid conventions. Are they merely reflections of their parents' aspirations, or do we see glimmers of their own emerging selves? What does it mean to be a girl on the cusp of womanhood during this time? This photograph encapsulates the complex negotiation between societal expectations and personal identity, inviting us to reflect on the stories of these young women.