Portret van een jongen 1875 - 1885

This photograph, "Portret van een jongen," by Eugene Guérin, presents us with a glimpse into late 19th-century society through the lens of portraiture. The image, likely a carte-de-visite, reflects the burgeoning culture of photography and its role in shaping social identity. Made in a time of increasing industrialization and shifting class structures in France, the portrait signifies the rise of the middle class and their desire to emulate the traditions of the aristocracy. Photographic studios emerged as key institutions in this period, democratizing portraiture while reinforcing social norms. The sitter's attire and carefully composed pose convey a sense of respectability and aspiration. To fully understand this image, we need to consult photographic archives, social histories, and material culture studies. By examining such sources, we can better appreciate the photograph as a social document, revealing the complex interplay between individual identity and broader historical forces.