Portret van een vrouw 1875 - 1896

Editor: Here we have a captivating gelatin silver print from the late 19th century, sometime between 1875 and 1896, called "Portret van een vrouw", or "Portrait of a Woman," by Paul Joseph Nicolas Nestor Schaffers. I find it has a serene, almost melancholic quality. What strikes you when you look at it? Curator: Melancholy, yes, but I also see a strength etched in those lines around her eyes – stories lived, wisdom gathered. And that gaze…doesn’t it feel like she’s peering directly into your soul? The oval frame adds to this intimate feeling. Pictorialism aimed to elevate photography to the level of fine art; does this echo any paintings in your opinion? Editor: I see what you mean! Her expression really does command attention. Thinking of paintings... I suppose the pose and lighting have a certain resemblance to portraits from the Renaissance era. But that almost eerie clarity of photography makes this quite different. Curator: Precisely! Schaffers uses the tools of photography to create something undeniably modern, while also referencing those classic forms. Consider that hint of a smile, it suggests a complex personality, don't you agree? Editor: Absolutely. She is neither overjoyed nor saddened – simply existing. I think I have new-found appreciation for portraits! Curator: Me too! Seeing the layers that are present in the artwork really bring it alive.