Blad met studies van werkende figuren 1840 - 1880

This is Johannes Tavenraat's "Sheet with studies of working figures," made with pen and gray ink. Born in Rotterdam, Tavenraat lived through a period of immense social and economic change. This drawing offers a glimpse into the lives of working-class individuals. Predominantly women are captured in various acts of labor. The attention to their tasks, from carrying heavy loads to tending to domestic duties, speaks volumes about the gendered division of labor at the time. These figures are not idealized. They are shown with a stark realism that invites reflection on the daily lives and struggles of those who formed the backbone of society. This piece not only documents but also subtly elevates the working class, giving visibility to those whose stories often went unrecorded. The emotional depth of this work lies in its silent acknowledgement of their perseverance.