Fotoreproductie van een tekening door Coen van Oven, voorstellend Anne Marie Langelaan als kind c. 1888 - 1905

This is a photographic reproduction of a drawing made by Coen van Oven, depicting Anne Marie Langelaan as a child. The photograph was produced by H.J. Tollens. The drawing's appearance is directly influenced by the qualities of its materials, such as graphite pencils and drawing paper, a departure from traditional art materials like oils or marble. It presents a soft, delicate rendition of the child's features, capturing a fleeting moment in time. The choice of drawing as the initial medium imbues the portrait with a personal touch. The photographic reproduction then transforms this intimate artwork into a reproducible image, emblematic of the era's burgeoning interest in mass communication and visual culture. The act of reproducing the drawing via photography speaks to changing social and economic conditions, where art becomes more accessible and portable. It democratizes the image, allowing for wider distribution and consumption beyond the original drawing’s context. Ultimately, this piece challenges our notions of originality and reproduction, prompting us to consider the social life of images and how they circulate within a society.