Portret van Neletta Jonker van der Linden 1899 - 1906

This photographic portrait of Neletta Jonker van der Linden was made in Amsterdam by Max Büttinghausen. It's a great example of the carte-de-visite format popular in the late 19th century. The magic of photography lies in its chemistry. Light-sensitive materials are carefully prepared, exposed, and then developed using a complex process involving acids and other solutions. It's a blend of science and artistry, highly dependent on the photographer's skill in manipulating these materials to achieve the desired image. Looking closely, you’ll see how light and shadow define Neletta’s features and the texture of her clothing. These photographs were easily reproducible and affordable, transforming portraiture from a privilege of the wealthy into a democratic practice. People from all walks of life could have their likeness captured, contributing to a visual culture that celebrated individuality and personal identity. This image offers not just a glimpse into Neletta’s life but also the rapidly changing social landscape of the time. It reminds us that every photograph is a material object, shaped by technology, labor, and the human desire for remembrance.