Portret van Trijntje Ton 1890 - 1906

Editor: This gelatin-silver print is entitled *Portret van Trijntje Ton*, created sometime between 1890 and 1906 by W.G. Kuijer & Zonen. It’s a strikingly direct portrait, almost confrontational in its simplicity. The subject's gaze is intense, and I’m curious about the story behind it. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Ah, Trijntje! You know, I imagine her a force of nature. That unflinching gaze feels like she's seen a thing or two, wouldn't you agree? And while it is "just" a photo, and they are common for that time, I always wonder: What was it like for her to sit there, posing? The stiff clothes, the tight collar, the little bonnet, were she roasting in there, what's her thoughts? Editor: I hadn’t really considered her experience of sitting for the photo, but that’s a really interesting angle. The formality of the setting really highlights the contrast with her very grounded expression. Curator: Precisely! It’s almost theatrical. Like she’s playing a role, but you sense there’s so much more beneath the surface. And the technical aspects… that almost dream-like quality of gelatin silver prints… don't you just love that ghostly feel that takes you back in time? This specific combination with what the artist captured of Trijntje takes it from interesting to absolutely spellbinding. Don’t you feel drawn into her world a little bit? Editor: Absolutely. I can see how the technical process and Trijntje’s pose all contribute to its haunting quality. The photographer has made a great picture, for certain. Thank you for shedding light on it. Curator: My pleasure. It's wonderful to see new eyes appreciate such a tangible glimpse into another lifetime, and for considering the circumstances that brought it to be. It shows me that this isn't only a portrait but, in some way, a connection between us.