Staande vrouw voedt haar baby 1756

Johann Daniel Laurentz created this etching, "Standing Woman Feeding her Baby", in the eighteenth century. It is an intimate portrayal of motherhood. This artwork, made in the Netherlands, offers a glimpse into the social values of its time. The simple composition focuses on the universal theme of maternal care. During the 1700s, the Dutch art world was shaped by the growth of art academies, where artists would study the aesthetic conventions of the time. However, etchings like these catered to a different audience. It brings art closer to the domestic sphere. This piece invites us to contemplate the role of women, family, and the everyday within Dutch society. It makes us consider what kinds of social expectations are being presented. Further insight can be gained by exploring the printmaking culture of the Netherlands and historical records about domestic life and family values. It is through this interdisciplinary approach that we uncover the deep cultural significance embedded in this seemingly simple artwork.