A woman inside a house 1662

Esaias Boursse created this drawing of a woman inside a house in the 17th century. Boursse, working in the Dutch Golden Age, often depicted scenes of daily life, offering glimpses into the domestic sphere. Here, we see a woman seated in what appears to be a moment of quiet contemplation. Her clothing suggests a modest status. She's holding a pipe, perhaps indicative of the growing accessibility of tobacco, and changing social habits. The setting is simple. Boursse was a member of the Dutch East India Company and travelled to India. His time abroad exposed him to a myriad of cultures. While it is unclear where this image takes place, Boursse developed a new appreciation for how women lived. Consider how the image captures a fleeting moment, inviting us to reflect on the lives of individuals often overlooked in grand historical narratives. While seemingly simple, this work reflects the complex social and cultural landscape of its time.