Portret van een vrouw met lange halsketting 1855 - 1880

This is a portrait of a woman with a long necklace, made by Franz Wilhelm Deutmann using photography. Photography, a relatively new technology at the time, involved a mix of chemistry and optics, with images captured on specially treated surfaces. This portrait is a direct result of the industrial revolution's impact on art, as technological advancements made image-making more accessible, although far from ubiquitous at the time. The photograph's surface is meticulously prepared, acting as a receptive canvas. The choices of materials and processes reflect an engagement with technology and an appreciation for the intrinsic qualities of light, shadow, and the precision of capture. The subject's clothing, jewelry, and hairstyle all contribute to the overall aesthetic and the construction of identity in the 19th century. The very act of creating a photographic portrait at this time indicates the sitter's and photographer's access to some resources, pointing to social and economic factors. Considering the materials and processes used allows us to appreciate the cultural significance of the work, as well as challenging traditional notions of art.