Jeg har ikke noget at give dig... 1895

Fritz Syberg made this pen drawing, titled "I have nothing to give you…," sometime in his lifetime, which spanned from 1862 to 1939. The artwork presents us with a scene laden with themes of sacrifice and exchange between women. The somber atmosphere hints at the limited social and economic opportunities available to women of that era, especially within the domestic sphere. The mother's lament reflects a patriarchal system, where a woman's worth is often tied to her ability to provide or offer something of value. Yet, the daughter's willingness to offer her hair challenges this notion, suggesting an alternative form of currency rooted in self-sacrifice and resilience. Syberg captures a poignant moment of female solidarity, hinting at how women create their own economies of care and support within restrictive social frameworks. This emotional exchange becomes a powerful testament to the strength and resourcefulness that emerge in the face of societal limitations.