Twaalf personen in klederdracht van verschillende streken, ca. 1820-1830 1820 - 1830

Ludwig Gottlieb Portman created this print around 1820-1830, showcasing twelve figures in traditional Dutch attire. Portman’s work invites us to consider the significance of clothing as a marker of identity and social status. During the early 19th century, the Netherlands was undergoing significant social and political changes. Traditional costumes reflected regional identities and social hierarchies. This print captures a sense of pride in local customs, but also subtly highlights the distinctions between different social classes. The detailed rendering of each costume allows viewers to appreciate the diversity and craftsmanship of Dutch folk traditions. Portman’s decision to depict a range of costumes can be seen as an effort to document and preserve these cultural practices. This print serves as a window into a specific time and place, prompting us to reflect on the ways in which clothing both shapes and reflects our identities. It reminds us that what we wear is never just fabric, but a powerful form of self-expression and cultural belonging.