Lily Holle met hond Moro in een tuin before 1894

Curator: We are looking at a photograph titled “Lily Holle met hond Moro in een tuin,” or “Lily Holle with Dog Moro in a Garden,” created before 1894 by Hendrik Herman van den Berg. Editor: Oh, there’s something very intimate about this image. It’s understated and warm, like stumbling upon a private moment. I can almost feel the cool shade of the garden. Curator: Yes, it is an example of Realism combined with portraiture— capturing a natural, relaxed scene with a woman and her dog in their shared domestic space. Dogs, especially during this period, are deeply symbolic. They often represent fidelity, loyalty, vigilance, and domestic tranquility. I’d guess that the woman saw her values mirrored in Moro. Editor: The dog! It’s magnificent, almost like a sculpture of a dog rather than an actual animal! Did dogs use to pose better back then or did cameras take longer? Also, I think, it is interesting to consider that this photo allows them, in a sense, to co-create their shared story. Curator: I think it's more than that! The staging itself points to her conscious alignment with particular cultural values associated with dogs. You see, photography at the time captured not only appearances but ideas, aspirations—a curated version of reality reflecting shared social memory. She's not just taking a picture with her dog; she's participating in a larger visual language where that association transmits belonging and morality. Editor: That's fascinating. But I can't help also feeling something very personal here. I see a connection there. Look how Lily is slightly tilted towards him and the dog looking directly in our eyes… almost defying anyone to question their link, almost defiant. I’d love to know more about Lily and her beloved Moro, how did they feel, how was their relationship? It certainly moved me. Curator: Indeed, through Van den Berg's image we are given the privilege of witnessing, from a great distance, this relationship as it gets preserved and displayed for generations. It is an excellent encapsulation of history. Editor: Right, I should get a portrait with my cat. I'll need a very slow camera and a large dose of hope.