Portret van Tootje Roos als peuter 1883 - 1887

This small photographic print, titled "Portret van Tootje Roos als peuter," was created by Albert Greiner. In this sepia toned portrait, the delicate texture and tonality create a formal composition, one that attempts to capture the essence of childhood. The subject, a toddler, is positioned slightly off-center, creating an interesting spatial dynamic. Notice how the chair acts as a structural element, its lines and form contrasting with the soft curves of the child's figure. The child’s gaze meets ours, disrupting the passivity expected in portraiture. Here, the artist isn't merely documenting likeness. Instead, through the balance of shadow and light and the compositional arrangement, he encourages a deeper consideration of innocence and representation. The formal qualities of the photograph invite us to look closely, question established meanings, and engage in a dialogue that extends beyond the surface of the image.