Studioportret van twee onbekende vrouwen met fietsen c. 1895 - 1920

This photograph by Jac. Schotel Szn. captures two unknown women with bicycles. The bicycle, a symbol of modernity, freedom, and progress, dominates the image. The bicycle, initially a symbol of male virility and industrial prowess, has transformed into a symbol of female emancipation. Consider the image of the winged goddess Nike, often depicted in motion, symbolizing victory and speed. The bicycle, here, assumes a similar role, offering these women unprecedented mobility and independence. This newfound freedom is not merely physical; it represents a deeper shift in societal roles and expectations. The emotional resonance of this image lies in its subtle defiance. In essence, this photograph captures a moment in the cyclical journey of symbols, reflecting both the aspirations and anxieties of a rapidly changing world.