Vrouw met sluier, de handen in de zij 1630 - 1661

Israel Henriet made this etching of a woman with a veil, her hands on her hips, in the 17th century. The print is reminiscent of the work of Jacques Callot, whose signature it bears. It could have served as a study of costume. The Dutch Republic in the 17th century was a deeply Calvinist society, and this is subtly reflected in the clothing, which while well-made, does not flaunt wealth. The woman's posture is self-assured, but her clothing is modest and practical. The fact that it's a print indicates it would be part of a series of prints. But consider the role of the Rijksmuseum itself, an institution dedicated to preserving Dutch art. The museum plays an important role in shaping the narrative of Dutch history and culture. An art historian would look at how this image contributes to that narrative, and perhaps challenge its emphasis on the moral purity of the Dutch Golden Age. They could do this by researching prints, fashion, and social codes of the period.