Familie rond een tafel aan een maaltijd 1834 - 1892

Jozef Israëls created this pencil drawing titled Familie rond een tafel aan een maaltijd, which translates to Family around a Table at Mealtime. Israëls lived during a time of significant social change, shaped by industrialization, urbanization, and growing social awareness. This drawing is a window into the intimate world of a working-class family. The scene depicts a family gathered around a simple meal, underscoring the themes of domesticity and familial bonds, a central theme in Israëls's work. Israëls focused on capturing the dignity and resilience of ordinary people, particularly those living in poverty. He once stated, "I do not want to paint a beautiful dress, but rather to have the soul felt." Consider how Israëls uses light and shadow to create a somber mood, perhaps reflecting the hardships faced by working-class families. The simplicity of the composition and the focus on everyday life invite viewers to reflect on the universal experiences of family, sustenance, and human connection. This drawing serves as a poignant commentary on the socio-economic realities of 19th-century Holland, reminding us of the human stories behind historical change.