Vrouw met lege beurs 1625 - 1675

This print, Vrouw met lege beurs, was made anonymously, and we don't know when. It likely dates to the 17th or 18th century, judging from the printing technique. The image was made through engraving, a process involving carefully incising lines into a metal plate, inking it, and then pressing it onto paper. The stark contrast between light and shadow is enhanced by the linear quality of the engraving. Note the old woman’s hands as she holds the distaff and spindle, essential tools for spinning thread. This was a time-consuming, labor-intensive process, usually associated with the poor. The woman's expression suggests resignation, or perhaps a quiet acceptance of her fate. Consider the social context of this image. The printing press made images widely accessible, and this print would have been relatively affordable. The artist may have been commenting on the plight of the poor, or perhaps even critiquing a society where wealth was concentrated in the hands of a few. Ultimately, the print serves as a reminder of the importance of labor, class, and compassion in shaping our understanding of the world.