Portret van onbekende man 1882 - 1887

This is Max Büttinghausen's "Portret van onbekende man," a photograph mounted on cardboard. The portrait is of an unknown man. Photographs like these are fascinating because they straddle the line between public and private, offering glimpses into the lives of people we may never know. During the late 19th century, photography became more accessible, but portraiture remained a formal affair. Looking at this image, I wonder about the sitter's life, his social standing, and his personal story. The photograph exists because of the sitter’s wish to be remembered, or the wish of someone close to them to remember him. Büttinghausen, working within the conventions of his time, captured a moment of self-presentation. I find myself pondering how we perform for the camera, and what aspects of ourselves we choose to reveal, or conceal. It's a poignant reminder of our shared human desire for visibility.