Portret van een oude vrouw met boek 1865 - 1881

Pieter Voet made this photograph of an old woman with a book sometime in the 19th century. This portrait gives us a glimpse into the cultural values and social structures of the time. The woman's attire and the presence of the book are visual cues. In 19th century Europe, books were associated with knowledge, leisure, and status. The woman's dress looks expensive, suggesting that she belongs to the upper class and has the time and money to read. The photo makes a clear connection between wealth, class, and education. This image comments on the social structures of its time, particularly regarding gender and class. It reflects a society where literacy and intellectual pursuits were more commonly associated with men. The existence of such a portrait suggests a changing social landscape where women, particularly those of means, were gaining access to education and intellectual life. Historians might consult books, newspapers, magazines, and archival records to better understand the social context of this photograph. This would help us understand how literacy, class, and gender interacted in 19th century society.