Portret van een onbekende man met een hoed en een paraplu c. 1870 - 1890

This is Frank Hunold's photographic portrait of an unknown man with a hat and umbrella. While the sitter remains anonymous, his attire offers a glimpse into the codes of masculinity and class of the time. During the late 19th century, as photography became more accessible, portraiture democratized representation and played a crucial role in shaping social identities. The man’s formal suit, complete with waistcoat, bow tie, hat, and umbrella, speaks to the visual markers of middle-class status. His posture, hands behind his back, exudes a controlled, almost performative, confidence. But what narratives remain untold in this image? The lack of identifying information invites us to consider the complex layers of identity and representation. Who was this man, and what was his story? What aspirations and anxieties might he have carried? Hunold’s portrait invites reflection on the power of representation. It underscores the importance of acknowledging both the visible and invisible forces that shape how we see ourselves and others.