Gedicht over liefdesverdriet c. 1650 - 1660

This is “Gedicht over liefdesverdriet,” or “Poem about lovesickness,” made by Gesina ter Borch in the 17th century. Ter Borch was a Dutch Golden Age artist, best known for her watercolours, drawings, and calligraphy. As a woman artist during this period, Ter Borch occupied a unique position. Despite societal constraints, she achieved recognition for her artistic talents within a family of artists. This poem, handwritten in elegant script, speaks to the deeply personal experience of lovesickness. The verses explore themes of longing, despair, and the torment of unrequited love. Ter Borch delves into the emotional turmoil of the heart, offering a glimpse into the inner life of a woman in the 17th century. It’s a demonstration of how women artists developed alternative narratives, expressing their own experiences and emotions in a society that often silenced them. In her exploration of love and loss, Ter Borch invites us to reflect on the universal human experience of heartbreak, transcending the boundaries of time and culture. This piece underscores the personal and emotional dimensions of artistic expression.