Zelfportret van Maurits Verveer 1850 - 1875

Editor: So, this is Maurits Verveer's self-portrait, dating somewhere between 1850 and 1875. It’s a gelatin-silver print housed at the Rijksmuseum. It gives me a very calm, contemplative feeling. It's pretty amazing to think about how early in the history of photography this was taken. What catches your eye when you look at it? Curator: The man, Verveer. He's at ease. Think of the length of exposure. And he holds a clay pipe—but it looks unlit. I'd venture to say the pipe functions more as a prop here. It says something about being cultured. Though perhaps he simply enjoyed his tobacco! Is there a hint of irony in his gaze, or is that my imagination? It is difficult to really read what someone from so far in the past feels... what do you see when you notice the pipe? Editor: I think he's working the bohemian artist angle. Posed, but still… somewhat relaxed, even bored maybe? Almost a little defiant too, actually! He's got the bowler hat, but his jacket seems quite nice. But the fact it’s a self-portrait adds another layer. Curator: It is self-aware! A curated self. Like he’s selling a character—the artist. Consider this a visual resume in a time before everyone had headshots on LinkedIn. That sepia tone almost acts as a veil. As if Verveer, as the image fades with time, is challenging us to remember, to consider the weight of history. It invites us into a silent dialogue, don’t you think? Editor: That makes sense. I hadn’t thought of it that way, but now it definitely comes across that this photo says a lot about being an artist. I wonder, did he nail the character he wanted to portray, or did the camera expose more than he intended? Curator: Ah, a perfect question. To ponder intent is to unlock new possibilities!