Fotoreproductie van (vermoedelijk) een prent naar werk van W. von Kaulbach: Lili (Lily's Park) c. 1860 - 1890

Andries Jager created this small photographic reproduction of an earlier print in the late nineteenth century. It may have been based on the work of the German historical painter, Wilhelm von Kaulbach. At first glance, "Lily's Park" evokes an idyllic scene: A woman stands in a lush garden surrounded by animals, seemingly at peace with nature. But let's consider the gendered and class dynamics at play. The woman, dressed in a refined gown and hat, is positioned as the central figure. She represents a particular vision of feminine beauty and grace, but also perhaps a figure of leisure afforded by her social position. The animals, including doves, chickens, and rabbits, add to the scene's ornamental quality. They exist within her space for her pleasure. In its time, this imagery would have resonated with certain class ideals, reinforcing notions of beauty, wealth, and control over the natural world. But today, we might also see the photograph as inviting reflections on the construction of identity and the power dynamics inherent in our relationships with nature.