Aan boord van een boot bij een bruiloft of feest c. 1903 - 1908

This silver gelatin print titled, 'On board a boat at a wedding or party,' was created by Geldolph Adriaan Kessler. The photograph provides a fascinating glimpse into Dutch Edwardian society. The composition emphasizes the fashionable attire of the women attending the event, with their elaborate hats and formal dresses reflecting the social customs of the time. Given the boat setting, it’s likely this gathering represents the leisure activities of the upper class. As art historians, we examine the institutional histories linked to photography, considering how photographic societies and salons of the time played a crucial role in defining aesthetic standards and promoting certain genres. By studying sources such as social registers, fashion magazines, and local newspapers, we can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural values and social dynamics reflected in this artwork.