Stoet vluchtelingen 1892

Romain Looymans created this print, titled 'Stoet vluchtelingen', which translates to "Procession of Refugees," using etching. Though undated, it evokes the tumultuous late 19th and early 20th centuries marked by war, displacement, and massive social upheaval. The print depicts a somber procession of figures, their faces etched with weariness and despair. The burden of their displacement is evident in their postures. The presence of women carrying children suggests themes of motherhood. The print invites us to consider how gender and caregiving intersect with the experience of forced migration. Looymans captures a raw, unidealized view of humanity, inviting empathy for these figures stripped of their homes and security. This image resonates today, amidst ongoing conversations about refugees, borders, and human rights. It serves as a poignant reminder of the personal stories behind the headlines.