Portret van een vrouw 1865 - 1890

André-Adolphe-Eugène Disdéri created this portrait of a woman using the then-new medium of photography. Note how Disdéri uses soft, diffused lighting to shape the sitter's features and clothing, creating a gentle tonal range. The composition, a profile view framed within a decorative border, emphasizes the woman's delicate features. The artist captures a sense of intimacy and personal expression. The muted sepia tones evoke a nostalgic and sentimental mood. Disdéri's work must be viewed through a semiotic lens, considering the cultural codes of the time. Photography in the 19th century was more than just a recording device. It was a cultural artifact laden with meaning. Here, the subject's attire and pose signify her status and refinement. Through the lens, Disdéri captures not just an image, but a complex interplay of identity and representation. The photograph serves as both a record of an individual and a reflection of broader social values.