Portret van een vrouw 1884 - 1900

This is Willem Pelgrom's portrait of a woman, made from a photographic print during his active years in the late 19th and early 20th century. The photograph, with its subtle sepia tones, offers a glimpse into the material world of early photographic processes. The image, captured on treated paper, speaks of the transition from artisanal craft to industrial production. Each portrait involved meticulous preparation and careful manipulation of chemicals, reflecting a blend of scientific knowledge and skilled labor. Photography at this time was more than just image-making; it was a social act. It democratized portraiture, allowing middle-class families to immortalize their loved ones. The mass production of photographs also reveals the changing dynamics of labor, politics, and consumption during this period. By understanding the materials and the making of this artwork, we appreciate the significance of photography in capturing the human experience and contributing to the ongoing conversation between fine art and craft.