Portret van Betje Haan 1883 - 1910

This is a portrait of Betje Haan, made with photographic techniques by Johannes Laurens Theodorus Huijsen. In this object, the convergence of technological innovation, market demand and the creation of personal keepsakes is palpable. The photographic print, mounted on card, was a relatively new medium at the time. The rise of photography transformed portraiture, making it more accessible to a broader segment of society. The process was still labor-intensive, though. Each print was carefully produced, reflecting a blend of technical skill and artistic sensibility. The photographer's studio was a site of both business and creative enterprise. Beyond the visual representation, consider the cultural value placed on memorializing individuals through photography. This portrait is more than just an image; it's a tangible connection to the past. It blurs the lines between industry and art, inviting us to consider the social and economic forces that shaped its creation.