Ising, Breitner en Hofker c. 1860 - 1915

"Ising, Breitner en Hofker" is a photograph by Willem Witsen, capturing three artists of the time. The work provides a glimpse into the social circles of artists in the late 19th and early 20th century. Witsen, born into an affluent family, was able to move in artistic and intellectual circles. This photograph encapsulates the male comradery of the art world. The men are captured in formal attire, embodying the conventionality of the era. Yet there is a desire to break from tradition through their artistic endeavors. The image also hints at the complex relationship between the artist and their subject. Who is behind the camera and who is in front? What does it mean to capture someone’s image? This photograph presents an intimate, yet carefully constructed view, reflecting the tensions between visibility and representation. Witsen’s photograph serves as both a historical document and a reflection on the artistic identity and social dynamics of his time.