Portret van Willem Jonker 1870 - 1900

This sepia photograph of Willem Jonker was produced by Photographie Française in Amsterdam. Note the bow tie, a seemingly simple adornment, yet one laden with historical echoes. Its genesis can be traced back to the practical cravats worn by Croatian mercenaries in the 17th century. Adopted by the French, it evolved into a symbol of elegance and status, becoming a staple in aristocratic circles, and eventually, professional uniforms. Consider how this transformation echoes in other symbols; the laurel wreath, once a sign of victory, now signifies achievement, and the transformation of the Egyptian scarab beetle, a symbol of rebirth, into contemporary designs. The bow tie speaks volumes about identity, reflecting a desire for belonging and status, and it embodies a non-linear path of cultural progression.