Portret van een onbekende vrouw (vermoedelijk) met haar twee zoons Possibly 1922 - 1926

Evert Johan van der Horst captured this photographic portrait of an unknown woman, presumably with her two sons. The studio portrait offers a glimpse into the conventions and constraints of early 20th-century life, especially for women. There’s a palpable sense of formality and constraint. The woman's stern gaze and the stiff poses of her sons speak to the limited roles afforded to women during this period, primarily as caregivers and upholders of social decorum. The sons’ matching sailor suits reflect the era's emphasis on uniformity and adherence to social norms. Yet, the woman's direct gaze hints at a quiet strength, suggesting a complex interiority beyond the prescribed social role. The photograph evokes a sense of longing and resilience. It serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and untold stories of women who navigated the complexities of motherhood within a restrictive societal framework.