Portret van een onbekende man 1823 - 1869

This is Hermanus Johannes van den Hout's lithograph of an unknown man, made sometime in the mid-19th century. During this era, portraiture served not only as a depiction but also as a declaration of social standing and identity. The sitter's conservative attire and somewhat stern expression reflect the values of the time which emphasized formality. Yet, the fact that his identity remains unknown piques our curiosity. This absence of identity in this portrait also invites contemplation on the complexities of representation. What narratives were intentionally or unintentionally excluded from the historical record? Van den Hout’s lithograph becomes a reminder of the stories that remain untold, inviting us to reflect on who is remembered, who is forgotten, and the power dynamics inherent in the act of portraiture itself.