Portret van een zittende man met baard 1860 - 1880

This is a portrait of a seated man with a beard, made by Matthijs Adolph Conen. The photographic process involved the careful application of chemistry to a glass plate. The sitter would have to remain perfectly still for a prolonged exposure time, which resulted in the subtle variations in light and shadow that we see here. The making of photographic portraits was part of a broader shift towards the commodification of images during the 19th century. Advances in chemistry and optics allowed for mass production, leading to the rise of portrait studios that catered to a growing middle class eager to capture their likeness. The act of posing, dressing in formal attire, and presenting oneself in a dignified manner speaks to the aspirations of the sitter. The photograph serves as both a personal memento and a social marker, reflecting the values and conventions of the time. By examining the materials, processes, and social context surrounding this image, we can gain a deeper understanding of the relationship between art, technology, and society.