Portret staand jongetje in matrozenkiel 1880 - 1890

Koene & Büttinghausen made this portrait of a young boy in a sailor suit using photography. This image captures a moment in time, but it also reflects broader social trends in late 19th-century Europe. The sailor suit, for instance, became a popular fashion for children, particularly among the middle and upper classes, symbolizing the growing importance of maritime power and exploration. As photography became more accessible, studios like Koene & Büttinghausen emerged, catering to a burgeoning market for personal portraits. The formal pose and careful composition speak to the conventions of the time, while the child's clothing and demeanor hint at the values and aspirations of his family. To understand this photograph more fully, we might delve into historical archives, fashion magazines, and census records, piecing together a richer understanding of the social and economic forces that shaped its creation. By doing so, we recognize that even a seemingly simple portrait can offer insights into the complex interplay between art, culture, and society.