Staking van de mijnwerkers c. 1889

Karl Meunier created this print, titled *Staking van de mijnwerkers*, using etching techniques. Meunier lived in a time of immense social upheaval, a time where industrialization dramatically reshaped labor and class structures. This piece reflects the profound human costs of industry, particularly for the working class. The striking miners in the foreground, with their worn clothes and weary stances, stand in stark contrast to the mine in the background. Consider the emotional weight Meunier conveys through his stark imagery. These are not just workers; they are individuals caught in a struggle for survival and dignity. The dark lines and heavy shading of the etching enhance the feeling of oppression and hardship. We can imagine that Meunier, witnessing these scenes, was compelled to reflect the harsh realities of industrial labor. This print is a powerful reminder of the human stories behind labor movements, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of social justice.