Portret van een vrouw met halsketting, zittend op een stoel Possibly 1887

Ernst Wolffram made this portrait of a woman, using photographic techniques to capture the sitter's image. Photography in this period, though still relatively new, had become a potent tool for representation, especially for the emerging middle class. It democratized portraiture, making it accessible to those who could not afford to commission a painted portrait. The process involved the use of light-sensitive materials and chemical processes to create a lasting image on paper, a stark contrast to the lengthy and costly process of painting. Notice the woman’s dress and jewelry. These details aren't just aesthetic choices, but are carefully considered elements of her self-presentation, reflective of her social standing and taste. Photographs like this offer us glimpses into the lives and aspirations of ordinary people, challenging our understanding of history and representation, reminding us that art extends beyond the realm of painting and sculpture.