Portret van drie kinderen 1905

Samson & Co.’s “Portret van drie kinderen” is a small, vintage photograph carefully placed in an album. The studio, active during a time of evolving social norms, captures the Victorian era's fascination with childhood, gender, and class. Here, two boys are dressed in sailor suits, evoking a sense of nautical adventure which was a common theme for boys' fashion, symbolizing a connection to maritime power and exploration. Meanwhile, their sister wears a frilly dress. These outfits reflect the visual codes of gender and social standing prevalent at the time. Gendered expectations are already being placed onto them. The photo's charm lies in its candid quality, capturing a fleeting moment of childhood. The image offers a glimpse into a world where identity was carefully constructed and performed. The emotional connection it fosters reminds us of the ongoing dialogue between personal experiences and the broader historical narratives that shape them.