Portret van een onbekende jongeman in uniform 1885 - 1906

This photograph of an unknown young man in uniform was made by W.G. Kuijer & Zonen in Amsterdam. It’s a small-scale print, likely made through an albumen printing process, where paper is coated with egg white and silver nitrate, then exposed to light through a negative. In this era, photography was becoming more accessible, yet remained a specialized craft. The photographer's skill was in controlling the chemical processes and lighting to create a clear image and flattering portrait. The material and making of this photograph reflect the values of the time, where precision, and attention to detail, were highly prized. Photography democratized portraiture, yet also captured social hierarchies, evidenced by the young man's military uniform and dignified pose. The labor involved, from preparing the chemicals to posing the subject, speaks to the cultural and economic context of the late 19th century. Considering the materials and making of this photograph allows us to appreciate its cultural significance, and reminds us that photography, like any other art form, is shaped by the social and technological forces of its time.