Portret van een onbekende vrouw in een witte jurk 1865 - 1870

This is a photographic print, likely made in France by Dagron et Cie. While the exact date is unknown, we can assume it dates back to the rise of photography as a means of portraiture in the mid-19th century. What's striking here is how the technology of photography democratized representation. Before, portraits were a luxury only afforded by the wealthy, commissioning painters. Here, the material reality of photography allowed for mass production, capturing likenesses for a broader segment of society. Look closely, and you'll notice the subject's pose and attire – carefully arranged to convey status and respectability. The white dress, while seemingly simple, would have been meticulously crafted, representing a significant investment of labor and resources. This photograph encapsulates the intersection of technological advancement and social aspirations, blurring the lines between art, craft, and commerce.