Dimensions: height 114 mm, width 62 mm
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
This is a black and white photograph of the Jonker family, undated and taken by an anonymous photographer. The family is composed of Willem, Mildred, and their son, who appear to be standing in front of a rocky landscape, perhaps on vacation. During this time, family portraits captured more than just an image; they reflected aspirations and social identities. The photograph becomes a stage where gender roles are subtly reinforced. Mildred stands slightly behind her husband, embodying the supportive role often assigned to women. The son, positioned between them, symbolizes the family's future and continuity. The anonymous nature of the photographer speaks to the democratization of photography, yet also hints at the unacknowledged labor behind capturing these intimate moments. This image invites us to consider the narratives we construct around family, identity, and representation, then and now.
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