Portret van een vrouw leunend op tafel 1855 - 1880

This portrait of a woman leaning on a table was taken by Jules Géruzet. The woman is centrally positioned with her hands resting squarely on the table, this creates a stable, almost architectural form. The warm sepia tones give the image a soft, nostalgic quality, while the contrast between the smooth surface of the table and the detailed pattern of her dress adds visual texture. Géruzet uses the compositional elements to suggest more than just a physical likeness; it’s a carefully constructed presentation of femininity and status. The table, with its ornate carvings, serves as a plinth, elevating her. The slight tilt of her head and her direct gaze create a sense of intimacy, inviting the viewer into her space. Ultimately, the photograph functions as a cultural artifact, reflecting the aesthetic values and social codes of its time. It invites us to consider how identity is constructed through visual representation.