Portret van een onbekende jongen in matrozenpak 1891 - 1912

This small photograph, now in the Rijksmuseum, was created by Friedrich Carel Hisgen. It depicts an unknown boy dressed in a sailor suit, a popular style for children at the time. The sailor suit, initially a practical uniform, became a symbol of youthful innocence and a sartorial expression of a nation's maritime power. The boy's confident stance and direct gaze speak to the burgeoning sense of identity fostered by such attire. Here, clothing shapes the narrative, embodying both personal identity and cultural ideals. It prompts reflections on how societal expectations are projected onto children and how clothing acts as a visual marker of class. Despite the formal presentation, there's an undeniable charm to the photograph. It is a tender portrayal of youth, amplified by our awareness of the historical context. This image echoes through time, touching on themes of identity, societal expectations, and the quiet dignity of everyday life.