Peasant with Hands Behind his Back 1610 - 1685

Adriaen van Ostade created this etching of a peasant with hands behind his back at an unknown date. The image provides a glimpse into 17th-century Dutch society, particularly the lives of its working class. The portrayal of the peasant, seemingly weighed down by the world, invites questions about the social and economic realities of the time. The Dutch Golden Age was a period of immense prosperity, but this wealth was not evenly distributed. Van Ostade, who mostly painted genre scenes, was interested in everyday life. He depicts the man's humble clothing and weary posture, suggesting a life of labor and hardship. The image seems to comment on the disparities within Dutch society and the lack of opportunities for those in the lower classes. To fully understand this work, scholars often turn to historical records, economic data, and social commentaries from the period. Through these resources, we can gain deeper insights into the conditions that shaped the lives of ordinary people.