Portret van een staande man met snor 1870 - 1900

This is an old photograph, likely made in the late 19th or early 20th century, by G.J. Ferneyhough. It's a simple albumen print, a process that was all the rage at the time. What's fascinating is how photography democratized portraiture. Before, only the wealthy could afford a painted likeness. But suddenly, with photography, a wider range of people could capture their image, a real leveling of the playing field. Think about the darkroom work, the chemistry, the precision needed. It's a far cry from today’s point-and-shoot world. And then there's the man himself. His suit, his stance, it all speaks of a certain social class. This image isn't just a record of his appearance; it's a document of a particular time, place, and social stratum. So, the next time you see an old photograph, remember it's not just an image, it is a manufactured object, shaped by the technology of the time, and the social forces at play.