Portret van een onbekende man 1869 - 1886

Curator: This photograph, taken by Waldemar Dahllöf between 1869 and 1886, presents us with a "Portret van een onbekende man," an unidentified man. Editor: The first thing that strikes me is how incredibly detailed the photo is despite its age. You can almost feel the texture of his velvet collar. The light makes him seem so substantial, firmly planted in place. Curator: Yes, and note how this seemingly simple portrait speaks to the prevailing notions of masculinity and class during the late 19th century. His very pose signifies composure, assurance…perhaps even dominance. The fact that his name has been lost does speak about the historical records' focus. Editor: Absolutely, the material markers of wealth and status are so visible here. The meticulously tailored suit, that elaborate tie and waistcoat-- they represent layers of labour, from the textile mills to the tailor’s workshop to whoever cleaned and maintained them. Do you think it was difficult for the subject to adopt such pose for long durations? Curator: Likely, this would require assistance. And the discomfort perhaps highlights how restrictive societal expectations were for men of his status, trapping him in this mold. Looking through a modern lens, it encourages us to examine ideas around male vulnerability and expressions that go unseen in dominant culture. Editor: The social restrictions and labor involved is clearly on display and also very tangible. One almost smells the developing fluids, thinking about the technical labor behind photography during the 1800s. The photograph itself now an artifact in the present era. Curator: I appreciate how you connected the present to past, which now gives new voice and power to this anonymous subject to offer cultural commentary beyond the obvious status and fashion. Editor: The image really becomes so many things over time, depending on the historical vantage. Thanks for discussing!