Portret van een jongeman 1865 - 1890

This photograph, titled 'Portret van een jongeman', was created by Wegner & Mottu. Though undated, the photograph’s style – its sepia tone and oval framing – suggests it was made in the late 19th century, a period when photography was becoming increasingly accessible. Yet, portraiture remained a practice largely confined to the middle and upper classes. The young man's formal attire and self-assured pose reflect the aspirations and social codes of the time. The Rijksmuseum, where this photograph is housed, plays a vital role in shaping our understanding of Dutch history and culture. By collecting and exhibiting works like this, the museum creates a narrative of national identity. But how might such institutions also reinforce certain social hierarchies, or exclude other stories? As art historians, we must consider the social and economic forces that shape both the production and reception of art. Examining photographic studios’ records, personal letters, and other primary sources could shed light on the sitter's identity and the photograph's original context, reminding us that meaning is always tied to specific social and institutional contexts.