Portret van Cornelis Kruseman 1841 - 1874

Willem Hendrik Stam created this print, a portrait of Cornelis Kruseman, in the Netherlands during the 19th century. This work offers a glimpse into the visual culture of the time, particularly regarding representations of male identity and status. Prints like this served as a means of disseminating images of prominent figures, reinforcing societal hierarchies. Stam, as the artist, and Kruseman, as the subject, both occupied distinct positions within this social structure. The choice to depict Kruseman in a formal manner speaks to the expectations and conventions of portraiture. This portrayal emphasizes not just likeness, but also respectability and social standing. Consider what it meant to have one's image circulated in this way. It suggests a certain level of influence and recognition within Dutch society, hinting at the intertwined nature of art, identity, and power during this era.