Portret van een staande vrouw in witte japon 1902 - 1908

This is a portrait of a woman in a white dress, made by E. v.d. Kerkhoff. In the late 19th century, photography offered new ways of seeing and representing oneself, especially for women. This portrait, likely taken in the Netherlands, shows a woman standing confidently in what looks like a studio setting. The white dress, while fashionable, also conveys a sense of purity and status, reflecting the social expectations placed on women at the time. The rise of photography studios created a space where individuals could perform their identities, carefully curating their image for public consumption. The art institutions of the time helped shape the artistic and cultural values that dictated the production and reception of such images. These photographs capture a moment in time, reflecting the aspirations and social norms of the Dutch upper class. Historical archives, fashion studies, and sociological research can help us understand the role of photography in shaping identity and social status during this period. By considering the social and institutional contexts, we can uncover deeper meanings embedded within this image.