Betsy met kat op schoot c. 1890 - 1900

Willem Witsen made this photograph, Betsy met kat op schoot, using a photographic printing process. The image presents a portrait of a young woman named Betsy holding a cat. It invites us to consider the social context of artistic production in the late 19th century Netherlands. What was the role of women in society at this time? How were domesticity and leisure represented in art? Witsen was part of a group of Dutch artists known as the Amsterdam Impressionists, who sought to capture everyday life and the changing urban landscape. As a member of this group, Witsen was interested in depicting modern life and exploring the relationship between art and society. By depicting Betsy in a moment of quiet contemplation with her cat, Witsen offers a glimpse into the domestic sphere and the social values of his time. To gain a deeper understanding of Witsen's work, one might consult historical archives, letters, and exhibition catalogs, which can provide insights into his artistic practice.