Portret van twee jongens met een kruiwagen 1890 - 1900

This photograph titled "Portret van twee jongens met een kruiwagen" was taken by Théodor Weijnen, who lived from 1835 to 1904. This carefully posed studio shot offers a glimpse into the representation of childhood during the late 19th century. The boys, dressed in matching striped shirts and caps, stand beside a wheelbarrow, their expressions unreadable. This symmetry invites us to consider the societal expectations placed upon them. The image hints at the intersection of labor and innocence, class and identity. What does it mean to see these children, perhaps already initiated into the world of work, presented in such a formal, stylized manner? Weijnen captures a moment in time, inviting viewers to reflect on the complex narratives embedded in the simple scene. It encourages us to explore the social and cultural values that shaped the lives and representations of children during this era.