Portret van prinses Wilhelmina als kleuter 1883

This photographic print of Princess Wilhelmina as a toddler was made by Kameke. The photograph is presented in a printed card album page, a relatively new method of display that democratized portraiture. In the 19th century, photography emerged as both a scientific marvel and a form of artistic expression, with advancements in chemistry and optics driving its development. The albumen print, a popular choice, involved coating paper with egg white and silver salts, resulting in a glossy surface with fine detail, as seen here. As photography became more accessible, it also became intertwined with social issues such as labor and class. Photographic studios employed skilled artisans and technicians, while the proliferation of images raised questions about representation, identity, and the commodification of images. The album page is a reminder of the interplay between technological innovation, artistic skill, and the broader social context in which images are created and consumed.