Biddende familie 1819

Bartolomeo Pinelli made this etching, titled 'Praying Family,' in Italy during the early 19th century. Pinelli’s print gives us a glimpse into the world of the Italian working class at that time. In this image, the family is depicted in a moment of apparent hardship, seeking assistance. A woman gestures towards another house, possibly asking for help. In the background, a person is leading a donkey with wood. These visual cues offer insight into the economic realities and social structures of 19th-century Italy. Historical records, such as parish registers, tax documents, and even personal letters, might shed light on the experiences of families like this one. By understanding the social and economic conditions of Pinelli's Italy, we can better appreciate the image's commentary on the lives of the working class, and the social institutions that helped shape their lives.