Portret van een onbekende staande vrouw in een jurk c. 1870 - 1910

This is a photograph of an unknown woman, made in Brussels by Photo Compagnie Belge. Images like this one, made in Belgium during the late 19th or early 20th century, offer a glimpse into the aspirations and social dynamics of the era. The woman's attire and pose reflect prevailing notions of feminine virtue. But photography itself was a relatively new medium that democratized portraiture. The rise of commercial studios made images accessible to a broader segment of the population, creating opportunities for individuals to represent themselves in ways that aligned with their social identities and aspirations. To truly understand this photograph, we need to delve into the social and economic history of Belgium. What role did photography play in shaping individual and collective identities? By exploring these questions, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the photograph.