Portret van een zittende baby met bal 1890 - 1931

This photograph, "Portret van een zittende baby met bal," was created by Klaas Schotsman, using photographic techniques. It is an albumen print, a process that involves coating paper with egg white to create a glossy surface for capturing the image. The albumen print, with its characteristic sepia tones and smooth finish, speaks volumes about the era in which it was made. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, photography was increasingly accessible, yet still held a certain mystique. The process demanded skill and precision, a careful balance of chemistry and craft. Beyond the technical aspects, we can see the cultural significance of this artwork. Photography provided a means of preserving likeness and commemorating milestones, becoming a cherished form of personal documentation. The tactile quality of the print, the subtle variations in tone and texture, all contribute to its unique presence. It encourages us to consider how the materiality of photography shapes our understanding of history, memory, and representation.