Portret van Thérèse Asser c. 1854 - 1855

Eduard Isaac Asser made this portrait of Thérèse Asser using photography, a relatively new medium in the 19th century. Photography chemically transforms light into a captured image. The sepia tones and soft focus give the portrait an ethereal quality. The photograph's materiality affects its appearance and our interpretation. It captures a moment in time, yet the process allows for manipulation and interpretation. The tactile quality of the photographic paper contrasts with the smooth surfaces and rich textures of Thérèse's clothing, emphasizing the economic status of the sitter, and their access to newly industrialized modes of production. The rise of photography coincided with industrialization and mass production. It democratized portraiture, previously exclusive to the wealthy. Asser's use of photography reflects a shift towards capturing and disseminating images, influencing art, culture, and society. It blurred the lines between fine art and documentation, sparking new creative possibilities. Considering the materials, making, and context enriches our understanding, and challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.