Portret van een man c. 1860 - 1880

This is a photograph, made in the Netherlands by Ferdinand Mulnier. It shows a man seated in a decorative chair, his arms crossed. In the 19th century, photography studios became increasingly popular. This image presents an interesting intersection of class, economics and social conditions. On one hand, the rise of photography allowed the middle classes to participate in portraiture, which had previously been reserved for the wealthy elite who could afford to commission painted portraits. On the other hand, photography studios, like other artistic institutions, inevitably reproduced social hierarchies. The man's clothing and the presence of an ornate chair suggest a level of affluence. Understanding this image requires considering the historical context of 19th-century Dutch society, including its economic structures and social norms. Art historians can explore archives and other resources to better understand the social role of photography in this period.