Vrouw, op de rug gezien 1867 - 1890

This drypoint print by Philip Zilcken captures a woman seen from behind, an intimate portrayal rendered with delicate lines. The bare back, a motif as old as art itself, immediately evokes vulnerability, but also a quiet strength. Consider how the depiction of the back appears throughout art history, from classical sculptures of Venus to the backs in paintings by Degas: a surface for projecting our emotions and desires. The exposed nape of the neck, in particular, has long held significance, symbolizing both eroticism and submission. Here, the woman's posture suggests introspection, her gaze turned inward. The very act of turning away invites speculation: What is she thinking? What is she feeling? This sense of mystery engages our subconscious, drawing on a collective memory of similar images across time. This artistic symbol resonates deeply within us, echoing through centuries of cultural expression.