Portret van drie mensen een zand grond in een boslandschap, een van hen Kessler c. 1895 - 1903

Geldolph Adriaan Kessler made this photographic print, titled "Portret van drie mensen een zand grond in een boslandschap, een van hen Kessler," sometime in the early 20th century. Though simple in composition, the photograph operates as a sort of time capsule. The rigid posing of the subjects and the formal attire create a stark contrast with the rugged natural environment, reflecting the social norms and expectations of the period. We see this in the woman's restrictive clothing which was standard for women in public life at that time. Kessler's presence as both the photographer and a subject complicates the narrative, inviting us to consider his perspective and motivations. What statement was Kessler trying to make by placing himself within the composition? What feelings did he have about the period? Ultimately, the photograph serves as a poignant reminder of how identity is shaped by both personal experiences and broader societal forces.