Portret van een man met vlinderstrik 1860 - 1900

This is a portrait of a man with a bow tie by F. W. Egeling, a mounted photograph with dimensions of approximately 139 by 99 millimetres. The image, sepia-toned, presents a study in contrasts between light and shadow, revealing the formal attire of the subject. The composition is meticulously arranged around the man's figure, emphasizing his face and upper body. Egeling employs the stark contrast to delineate the contours of the man's face, throwing into relief the textures of the skin and fabric. The details in the jacket—a dark plane against the softer background—add depth. Egeling’s manipulation of light and form elevates the portrait beyond mere likeness. He captures a certain gravitas, typical of bourgeois portraiture and its complex social dynamics. The photograph’s visual language reflects broader cultural codes, inviting us to consider the subject’s status. Note how the formal qualities of the portrait extend beyond aesthetics. They actively engage with societal structures, underscoring the intrinsic connection between art, representation, and identity.