Femme de Palestrina (Woman from Pellestrina) 1775

Giovanni David created this print, “Femme de Palestrina,” around 1780, depicting a woman from Pellestrina, an island near Venice. The image offers a glimpse into the lives of working-class women in 18th-century Italy, a demographic often omitted from the historical record. The print shows a woman in modest attire with her fishing rod, her gaze is steady and self-assured as she holds a brace of fish. We can imagine the physical demands of her labor, the early mornings spent at the shore. David captures the emotional register of her daily routine, a blend of resilience and quiet determination. David’s work challenges the conventions of his time. Rather than focusing on aristocratic subjects, he turns his attention to the working class, lending dignity to their everyday lives. This print serves as a reminder of the diverse experiences and contributions of women in history.