Portret van een jonge vrouw 1900 - 1920

Jac. Schotel Szn. created this small portrait of a young woman at a time when photography was increasingly accessible, yet still imbued with a sense of formality and occasion. The subject's attire and hairstyle speak to the sartorial conventions of the late 19th or early 20th century, reflecting societal expectations around gender and presentation. She is dressed in a white dress with a high neckline and lace details, and her hair is styled in a large updo. She also wears a thin black ribbon around her neck. These elements tell us about the subject's social standing and adherence to contemporary ideals of femininity. The neutral expression of the sitter invites us to consider the role of portraiture in constructing identity. Is she presenting an idealized version of herself or revealing something more intimate? This portrait preserves a moment in time, inviting us to reflect on the lives and experiences of those who came before us, and how their stories continue to resonate today.