Portret van een onbekende vrouw 1840 - 1850

This is a portrait of an unknown woman by W.E. Kannegiesser made with photography. In the 19th century, photography democratized portraiture. Before, likenesses were only for the wealthy, now members of the emerging middle class could commission images of themselves and their loved ones. The woman in this photograph, most likely Dutch, is dressed in the height of fashion with a full skirt and delicate lace collar. She wears jewelry and has a carefully styled up-do. The ornate frame is also indicative of middle class tastes. How does this imagery function within the social context of its time? This is the question that preoccupies art historians. By studying fashion plates, advertisements, and personal letters, we can begin to get a sense of the sitter’s class, aspirations, and identity.