Studio Portrait of a Javanese Woman c. 1867 - 1910
kassiancephas
rijksmuseum
print, photography
portrait
photography
orientalism
japonisme
genre-painting
"Studio Portrait of a Javanese Woman" is a photograph taken by Kassian Céphas, a photographer who worked in Java, Indonesia, between 1867 and 1910. The image showcases a young Javanese woman, seated on a low platform, clad in a traditional Javanese dress, capturing a moment of quiet dignity. The photograph reflects the growing interest in documenting the indigenous cultures of the Dutch East Indies during the colonial period, while also showcasing Céphas's skill as a portrait photographer. The image is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.
Comments
This portrait is actually a study in artificial naturalism. Dressed in a batik sarong and breast cloth with a shoulder cloth draped casually across her lap, the young woman has been studiously seated on an artificial rock. Scattered leaves and carefully placed clumps of grass heighten the natural effect; however, the naturalism is mainly due to the model’s relaxed and confident pose.
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