Portret van een man 1890 - 1910

This photographic portrait of a man was created by D. Fraenkel & Zoon, though we don't know exactly when. In its time, photography was both an industrial process and a form of craft. Looking closely, you can see the subtle tonal variations achieved through chemical processes on light-sensitive paper. The sepia tone, a result of the developing process, gives the image a warm, antique feel, reminding us of its historical context. The subject is formally posed, a convention of early portrait photography, reflecting the sitter's desire to present a dignified image. Consider the labor involved: from the photographer's expertise in handling equipment and chemicals, to the subject's participation in the ritual of portraiture. Photography democratized image-making, allowing for broader representation across social classes, and challenging traditional hierarchies of art. This portrait, once a modern marvel, is now a tangible piece of history, encapsulating a moment in time through its unique material qualities and photographic techniques.