Twee jagers, staand naar rechts 1864 - 1936

Jan van Essen created this sketch of 'Two Hunters, Standing to the Right' using pen in the late 19th or early 20th century. Van Essen, who lived from 1854 to 1936, captured a moment that reflects the social and economic structures of his time. Hunting was often associated with the upper classes, a leisure activity accessible only to those with the means and social standing. The hunters, with their distinctive attire and pipes, evoke a sense of traditional masculinity. This sketch raises questions about access, privilege, and the ways in which certain identities are constructed and reinforced through cultural practices. The lack of detail invites us to reflect on what we project onto these figures. Are they symbols of a bygone era, or do they reflect ongoing power dynamics in society? This piece provides a window into the historical context of leisure and the performance of social roles.