Staande vrouw 1881 - 1899

Jan de Waardt made this graphite drawing, "Standing Woman," which is evocative of the changing roles and representations of women at the turn of the 20th century. De Waardt, born in 1871, lived during a period of significant social upheaval, particularly concerning gender and class dynamics. This image portrays a woman in what appears to be everyday attire, yet her stance – hand on hip, gaze directed confidently forward – suggests a departure from traditional, demure portrayals. The fashion, with its emphasis on the upper body and a more relaxed skirt, reflects the evolving styles that allowed women greater mobility and presence in public spaces. The drawing exists in a fascinating tension, capturing a figure who is both constrained by the fashion of her time and pushing against those boundaries with her posture and gaze. What emotions does this piece evoke in you? Does she appear poised, reflective, or perhaps even defiant? The beauty of art lies in its ability to evoke these personal connections, bridging the gap between the artwork and our own experiences.