Portret van een vrouw 1881 - 1900

This is a photographic portrait of a woman, made by the Cordes brothers in the Netherlands at an unknown date. Small, sepia-toned images like this were common in family albums and served as important documents of identity and social connection. Photography in the 19th century was a rapidly developing technology, and studios like that of the Cordes brothers played a crucial role in popularizing it. Looking at the woman’s dress and hairstyle, we can infer certain things about her social status and the norms of the time. The formal pose and the oval frame suggest a certain level of formality and respectability. The lack of adornment might speak to the sitter's religious beliefs or social standing. Examining sources like etiquette guides, fashion magazines, and census records from the Netherlands during the period when the photo was made can help us to contextualize it further. By understanding the social and institutional conditions that shaped its production, we can gain a richer appreciation of the portrait's meaning and significance.