Mansbuste, wijzend naar rechts c. 1750 - 1799

Gerrit Dadelbeek made this drawing of a man pointing to the right with graphite and colored pencil. It appears to depict a member of the bourgeoisie, identifiable by his clothing and the way he presents himself. The work is titled in Dutch and might have been made in the Netherlands. The Dutch bourgeoisie rose to prominence in the 17th century and remained a powerful social class into the modern era. These rising middle classes significantly impacted the art world because they became art patrons and collectors, changing art's function and subject matter. Rather than religious or aristocratic displays, art became increasingly concerned with middle-class life, values, and aesthetics. By researching Dutch history, social hierarchies, and art patronage systems, we can better understand the cultural and economic contexts in which Dadelbeek created this image. This portrait offers a glimpse into the visual codes and social dynamics of its time. The careful study of such artworks can offer a deeper understanding of the institutions that governed the creation, consumption, and interpretation of art.