Portret van twee meisjes, waarvan één zittend op een stoel 1880 - 1890

Joseph Maes created this small portrait of two girls, one seated on a chair, sometime in the late 19th century. The sepia tones and formal composition give the image a sense of timelessness and introspection. The photograph is structured around the contrast between the seated figure and the standing one, creating a play of levels and perspectives. The composition, with the two girls closely positioned, suggests a bond, reinforced by the standing girl's hand gently placed on the other’s shoulder. This arrangement subtly engages with semiotic codes of kinship and support. The limited tonal range focuses attention on the girls' expressions and attire, reflecting the social values and constraints of their time. The contrast between light and shadow, typical of early photographic processes, adds depth and a sense of emotional reserve. This stylistic approach is not just aesthetic but also serves as a cultural artifact, inviting us to consider the interplay of representation, identity, and societal expectations. The photograph remains an open text, subject to continuous interpretation.