Portret van een jonge vrouw met bijeengebonden haar en een strik c. 1866 - 1900

This is Johan Christiaan Reesinck’s portrait of a young woman, made during a time when photography was becoming increasingly accessible, yet portraits remained a potent symbol of status and identity. The woman’s modest attire, with her hair neatly bound and adorned with a simple ribbon, speaks to the conventions of feminine virtue expected during the late 19th century. But look closer—there's a quiet strength in her gaze, a hint of individuality that resists complete conformity. Reesinck, positioning himself within the societal norms of his time, captures more than just an image; he offers a glimpse into the complex negotiation of identity for women in a rapidly changing world. Reesinck captures not just the likeness of a young woman, but a moment of poised self-awareness. It's a reminder of the intimate, often unspoken dialogues that occur between artist, subject, and viewer.