Portret van een man before 1870

A. Böeseken created this portrait of a man, likely in the late 19th century when photography was becoming more accessible and used to capture likenesses and social status. Portraits like this, usually commissioned by the sitter, reflect the sitter’s identity and place within the strict social codes of the time. We can tell this man is of a certain class. Look at the formal attire, the carefully styled hair, and the confident gaze. All speak to a desire to present a specific image of himself to the world. This is a carefully constructed identity, performing a role as a respectable member of society. Consider what is not shown – the complexities of the individual's life, struggles, or emotions remain hidden beneath the surface of the photograph. This is both a personal record and a social artifact. It’s a testament to the power of the photographic image to shape and reflect societal values.