Straatverkoper met bord "Prachtige winterjassen sterk goedkoop" 1899

Jan de Waardt created this drawing, "Straatverkoper met bord 'Prachtige winterjassen sterk goedkoop'," using graphite on paper. The choice of graphite is critical here; it's a humble material, perfectly suited to capture the bleakness of the scene. Look closely, and you'll notice the contrast between the rough strokes used to depict the weary street vendor and the more defined lettering on the sign he carries. This speaks volumes about labor and class. The vendor, hunched and worn, is rendered with a raw, almost hurried technique, reflecting the daily grind. The sign, advertising "beautiful winter coats, strong, cheap," suggests mass production and consumerism. The drawing style reflects the social context of early 20th-century urban life, capturing the stark realities of labor and the relentless pursuit of commerce. By focusing on material and making, De Waardt elevates the street vendor's plight. It bridges the gap between fine art and everyday experience.