Portret van een vrouw met opgestoken haar en broches c. 1895 - 1920

This is a portrait of a woman with her hair up and wearing brooches, by Johan Herman van der Laag. The photograph itself is small, its muted sepia tones lending it an intimate feel. The woman is framed in an oval, a classical form that focuses the eye directly on her face and upper body. Note how van der Laag uses the conventions of portraiture to both capture and construct an image of femininity. The oval shape softens the edges, drawing attention to the smooth, pale skin and delicate features of the subject. The dark fabric of her dress is contrasted against the lightness of her complexion, creating a balanced composition. The brooches at her collar are not merely decorative; they function as signs of status and respectability. The controlled pose and serious expression further emphasize these qualities, reflecting the values of the time. Ultimately, this portrait uses formal elements to negotiate complex ideas about gender, class, and representation.