Portret van een jongeman 1860 - 1900

This is a portrait of a young man, made by C. Martfeld, displayed within a photo album of modest size. The sepia tone is typical of early photography, a chemical process that renders the image in shades of brown. This process was incredibly labor intensive. Creating the photograph involved the preparation of light-sensitive materials, precise timing during exposure, and careful development to reveal the image. Each stage required specialized knowledge and skill. The final print, mounted within a decorative frame and album page, transforms a humble material process into a cherished keepsake. While we may not know the sitter's identity, this portrait speaks volumes about the cultural significance of photography in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. It underscores the ways in which this technology democratized portraiture, making it accessible to a wider segment of society beyond the wealthy elite. By understanding the materials and the making, we gain a deeper appreciation for the social and cultural values embedded within this seemingly simple photograph.