Boerin met gevouwen handen 1841 - 1883

Curator: Standing here at the Rijksmuseum, we are looking at “Boerin met gevouwen handen,” or “Farmer's Wife with Folded Hands,” a work by Elchanon Verveer. It's difficult to pin down the exact date, but we estimate it was created sometime between 1841 and 1883. Editor: Oh, she’s seen a thing or two, hasn’t she? I can almost smell the earth on her hands, feel the weariness etched on her face. It's funny how such simple lines can carry so much…gravity. Curator: It's a striking example of Verveer's ability to capture character with minimal strokes. Considering the socio-political climate, images of rural life like these became potent symbols. They evoke themes of piety and simplicity. Editor: Piety, yes, definitely get that. Those hands clasped together...But there’s also something so grounded about her. I see her as this almost monumental figure; like a weathered tree that’s silently been listening for centuries. It feels almost spiritual but not in a way that feels showy. Does that make sense? Curator: Absolutely. The image invites that interpretation, especially given the romanticization of rural virtue that pervaded 19th-century art and literature. It suggests a deliberate contrast with increasingly industrialized urban life. There was a huge upheaval due to the industrial revolution! Editor: That rings true for sure! And I bet she probably didn't have time to be sentimental. There is probably such an industry that emerged because she's too busy just living it. Looking at those almost harsh lines now—her expression's even harder edged than it first appeared. Curator: The rough nature of the sketch might further reflect this reality. There is certainly a powerful ambiguity present. Is it an attempt at a realist depiction or an idealised symbol, maybe even both? It depends how one considers that art's relationship with truth functions in these portrayals. Editor: I think I see it now...It really does get into you, huh? Almost like the land calling back... Curator: These dialogues, even unspoken ones, can often resonate louder than words. It forces you to think critically of not just art but what is seen as a source of value in any society. Editor: What an evocative study of humanity! This image will stick with me for quite some time!