Portret van een onbekende man 1855 - 1885

This is J. Thierry's portrait of an unknown man. The photographic print captures a seated man, adorned in formal attire, a black coat and bow tie. Reflecting on this image, the identity of the sitter remains elusive. The details of his attire and posture offer clues, painting a picture of a man positioned within the middle class of his era. The photograph represents societal norms of that time, in which formal portraiture served as a means of documenting and affirming social standing. There is an emotional dimension, even in the absence of a known identity. The man's gaze meets the viewer, creating a silent dialogue across time. It invites us to reflect on the stories of countless individuals whose names have been lost to history. The artwork encourages reflection on themes of identity, representation, and the passage of time.