Portret van een vrouw 1867 - 1900

G.R. Lambert & Co. created this ‘Portrait of a Woman,’ using a photographic process that was gaining traction in the late 19th century. The woman in the portrait is likely of mixed heritage, a reflection of the colonial history of the Dutch East Indies, now Indonesia, where G.R. Lambert & Co. were based. During this period, photography played a crucial role in shaping perceptions of identity, often reinforcing colonial hierarchies. This portrait, with its delicate composition, invites us to consider the complexities of identity and representation. It presents the sitter with dignity, but also raises questions about her social standing and the gaze of the colonizer. What narratives might remain hidden behind her gaze? This photograph serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate interplay between personal identity, colonial history, and the power of representation.