Jonge vrouw met kind in een mand op haar rug c. 1750 - 1800

This etching by G. van Citters presents a young woman with a child in a basket on her back, rendered in delicate lines against a stark background. The composition focuses on the woman’s figure, her gaze directed slightly downward, creating a sense of introspection. Van Citters masterfully uses line and shadow to convey texture and form. Notice how the lines defining her clothing are not just outlines but also indicate folds and weight, giving depth to the figure. The etching technique allows for a play of light and dark that enhances the emotional weight of the subject. Semiotically, the woman carrying a child symbolizes motherhood and burden. The bare feet of the woman ground her, connecting her directly to the earth. It’s a detail that speaks to the realities of the life she leads. This directness in representation, devoid of idealization, challenges conventional artistic values and engages with social themes through its stark portrayal. The artwork invites us to interpret the codes embedded within its visual language.