Miller verdedigt zijn gezin tegenover de president 1785

Daniel Nikolaus Chodowiecki created this etching, "Miller verdedigt zijn gezin tegenover de president," a title which translates to "Miller Defending His Family to the President," sometime in the 18th century. Chodowiecki lived through the Enlightenment, a period that championed reason and individualism. His works often explored the daily lives and moral dilemmas of ordinary people. Here, we see a scene charged with tension. A miller, presumably of modest means, confronts a figure of authority, the President, possibly advocating for his family. The image raises compelling questions about class and power dynamics. The miller's stance suggests courage but also vulnerability, as he dares to challenge the established order. This piece reflects the era’s shifting attitudes towards social justice and individual rights, resonating with contemporary discussions about equity and representation. It's a stark reminder of the personal courage required to challenge authority.