Portret van een onbekende vrouw c. 1880 - 1900

This is a photographic portrait of an unknown woman by Charles Shepherd from St. Paul. Though undated, the photographic style and the woman’s dress suggest it was made in the late 19th century. The image is presented in a decorative mount, typical of commercial portrait studios at the time. In the late 19th century, photography became increasingly accessible to the middle classes. Studios like Shepherd's democratized portraiture, allowing individuals to commission images of themselves and their loved ones. These portraits served as important markers of social identity and status. Historical records, such as studio ledgers and local directories, can provide insights into the clientele and practices of such studios, shedding light on the social and economic context in which this image was produced. By studying the visual codes and material culture surrounding this photograph, we can better understand the aspirations and self-perceptions of individuals in a rapidly changing society.