Portret van Jacob Hartog 1889 - 1925

This old photograph by Josephus Hendrikus Petrus Coppens captures Jacob Hartog in a formal pose. It's sepia-toned, all browns and creams, giving it a soft, aged quality. I'm thinking about the photographer, Coppens, setting up the shot, carefully arranging Jacob against that rustic fence, probably outdoors, to get the lighting just right. You can almost feel the stillness of the moment, everyone holding their breath for the exposure. Look at Jacob's stance, one leg crossed jauntily, trying to look casual but still proper in his suit and waistcoat. Was he nervous? Did he know how to pose? I bet Coppens directed him, maybe even cracked a joke to ease the tension. This little portrait shows a specific moment, but it speaks to a much larger conversation about how we present ourselves, and how artists like Coppens help us see ourselves, and each other. It’s like they are all in conversation together, and across time with us.