Portret van een baby met boek 1880 - 1884

Nicolaas Jelles van Ulsen created this small portrait of a baby with a book using photography. During the nineteenth century, the rise of photography coincided with evolving ideas about childhood. This photograph reflects the increasing emphasis placed on education and the innocence of youth. But look closer. The baby, perched precariously on a draped table, appears to be forced into a pose with the books placed carefully in their hands. The baby’s ambivalent expression hints at the performative aspect of early portraiture. The image prompts us to consider the historical expectations placed on children, particularly regarding intellect and social standing. It invites us to reflect on how such representations both shape and reflect societal values. While seemingly a simple portrait, it serves as a poignant reminder of the complex interplay between identity, representation, and cultural ideals.