Fotoalbum van een Nederlandse familie met 50 cartes-de-visite c. 1855 - 1885

This is a photo album of a Dutch family with 50 cartes-de-visite; its exact creation date is unknown. The album offers a fascinating glimpse into the visual culture and social customs of the Dutch middle class. As photography became more accessible, these albums served as vital tools for constructing and preserving family identity. They were carefully curated to reflect the family's social standing and personal narratives. Each carte-de-visite, a small portrait photograph, was more than just an image. It represented individual stories, relationships, and the broader social networks of the time. Reflect on how families chose to present themselves. Were the images staged to project a certain image? What can we infer about gender roles and social expectations from the poses and attire of the subjects? The act of compiling and displaying these photos was a deliberate assertion of belonging and cultural pride.