Theo Mann-Bouwmeester in toneelkostuum 1898

This photograph shows the actress Theo Mann-Bouwmeester in costume, and was created by Albert Greiner in Amsterdam. The image offers a glimpse into the world of late 19th-century Dutch theatre. Bouwmeester, a celebrated actress, is depicted against a backdrop that suggests a stage setting, perhaps a salon. Greiner, who proudly advertised as ‘Royal Court Photographer,’ captures Bouwmeester in a moment of poised elegance, holding a walking stick and flowers, elements that contribute to the construction of her theatrical persona. Photography, at this time, was still a relatively new medium, and portraiture was becoming increasingly popular. This photograph reflects not only the rise of celebrity culture but also the democratization of image-making, as photography made portraits more accessible to a wider audience. To understand this image better, we might delve into theatre history, costume design, and the broader social history of the Netherlands during this period. These resources help us understand the photograph not just as a likeness, but as a cultural artifact, a testament to the social and institutional contexts that shaped its creation.