Portret van Johannes Pieter Stephan Gualthérie van Weezel in kostuum Possibly 1887 - 1899

This photograph by Antonius Joannes van der Stok presents Johannes Pieter Stephan Gualthérie van Weezel in costume. The choice of attire is striking. Made in the Netherlands, at a time when photography was becoming increasingly accessible, this image speaks to the cultural landscape of the late 19th century. Consider the rise of civic associations and historical societies, and the staging of elaborate historical pageants, all signs of a culture grappling with its own identity and past. The sitter’s garments, reminiscent of a Renaissance-era noble, invoke an idealized vision of history. By donning this attire, he actively participates in the construction of a particular historical narrative. Understanding this image requires looking into the archives of Dutch cultural organizations, exploring the records of costume collections, and delving into the history of photography as a democratizing force. The role of historians is to uncover the layers of meaning embedded within, revealing how clothing, identity, and societal values intertwine.