Portret van een vrouw in hooggesloten jurk 1880 - 1913

This is a portrait of a woman in high-necked dress by Friedrich Julius von Kolkow, the dimensions of the work are 84 by 51 mm. The artwork uses soft monochrome tones to capture the sitter's likeness. The composition is dominated by the woman's figure, framed tightly to emphasize her face and the intricate details of her dress. Notice how the ruffles of the dress are echoed in the subtle waves of her hair, creating a sense of visual harmony. The artist's attention to texture, from the smooth skin to the detailed fabric, adds depth to the image. Consider how the high-necked dress, a symbol of Victorian modesty, speaks to broader cultural values of the time. The overall effect is one of quiet dignity, inviting us to contemplate the individual within the constraints of societal expectations. This piece isn't merely a record of appearance, but a reflection on identity, representation and the structuring of social meaning.