Portret van een vrouw 1881 - 1888

Jean B. van Hoeter produced this photographic portrait of a woman sometime in the late 19th century. The image presents us with a compelling challenge to the social norms of its time. Portraits like this served more than just aesthetic purposes. They also served as potent symbols of social status. The woman's formal attire suggests a certain level of financial comfort and social standing, offering a glimpse into the values and ambitions of middle-class society in the Netherlands during that era. Is this a representation of the artist's social circle or a commission? What is most intriguing is the sitter’s gender expression. While the dress is coded as feminine, the hairstyle and facial features challenge conventional notions of femininity. The artist compels us to consider the representation of gender as something fluid. By researching the history of photography and portraiture during this period, we can begin to appreciate the image not only as a personal representation but as a statement.