Fotoreproductie van een getekend portret van een jongeman 1860 - 1890

This is a photographic reproduction of a drawn portrait of a young man, made by J.H. v.d. Heijden, with the exact date unknown. Portraits like this offered a way to preserve one's image in a time before easy photography. The oval frame, the subject's attire, and the drawing's style all speak to the social conventions of portraiture, likely made in the 19th century Netherlands. The young man's serious expression and formal clothing suggest a desire to present a respectable image to society. This work could be explored through period studies on photography, fashion and social class in the Netherlands. What messages was the sitter trying to send? And what can be revealed about the relationship between the individual and society through this image? Considering these questions allows us to move beyond aesthetics and see art as a reflection of social and institutional forces.