Groepsportret van Maria Engelina Jonker, Anne v.d. Broeke en twee gebroeders Jonker 1880 - 1910

This is a group portrait of Maria Engelina Jonker, Anne v.d. Broeke, and two Jonker brothers by J. Jeannerel, captured using the photographic medium of its time. The composition is meticulously arranged, presenting a study in contrasts through light and shadow that evoke a sense of quiet dignity. The subjects are positioned against a backdrop that suggests an outdoor setting, yet the controlled lighting and formal poses betray the artificiality inherent in studio photography. The interplay of textures, from the smooth finish of the women's dresses to the coarser fabrics of the men's suits, adds depth to the image. This detail encourages a reading of social signifiers coded within the materials and design of their garments. Consider the structural elements at play; the verticality of the figures countered by the horizontal lines of the table and backdrop creates a balanced yet static composition. This speaks to a desire for order and stability, values that were highly esteemed during this period. Photography such as this challenges our perception of reality, offering a constructed version that reinforces societal norms and expectations.