Portret van Emerentia van Beresteyn 1847 - 1889

William Unger created this print titled 'Portret van Emerentia van Beresteyn'. Unger was born in 1837, a period when Europe was undergoing significant social and political upheaval. This was a time when traditional hierarchies were being questioned and new ideas about identity and representation were emerging. Looking at the portrait, we see Emerentia dressed in the fashion of her time, which speaks to her social standing and identity. The artist's choice to depict her in this way reflects the societal norms and expectations placed on women of her class. It invites us to consider the role of portraiture in shaping and reinforcing social hierarchies. Does this image uphold conventional representations of women, or does it propose something different? The emotional depth conveyed in Emerentia's gaze brings a personal dimension to this exploration of identity. It is a reminder of the individual stories that are often overshadowed by broader historical narratives.